Severe weather can be incredibly troubling, especially to motorists who are concerned about the appearance and general condition of their cars. Fortunately, by understanding the signs to look for, you can prevent auto glass damage. The guide below explains what causes these ice missiles to form and what preventive measures to take.

What Causes Hail?

Hail forms in cumulonimbus clouds, which are typically large, anvil-shaped formations that reach high into the sky. Within these clouds, there are updrafts and downdrafts that move water around within the formation. As water is pushed upwards with the help of updrafts, it freezes and bonds with other water molecules. While the formations can fall downwards towards the earth, sometimes they take multiple trips back up through the highest part of the cloud, adding more layers to the hailstone and increasing its size. Depending on the size of the cloud and the conditions, hail can be as small as a pea or as large as a grapefruit. 

How Can You Look After Your Car?  

As you can imagine, heavy ice falling from the sky can be incredibly hard on your car, but especially on your auto glass—potentially causing it to crack or shatter. Protect your car by always storing your vehicle in a garage or under covered parking, especially if there are storm clouds gathering. When you are out and about, try to park under a covered structure. If that is not available, park as close to a building as possible, trying to block exposure in the direction the vehicle is coming from. Place a thick blanket or your flat mats over the auto glass to reduce the severity of any impact.

If your car has been damaged by hail, the team at Auto Glass Experts in Hastings, NE, will help. In addition to providing quick and efficient assessments of auto glass damage, they also offer windshield repair and replacement services, helping you to return your car to its original condition. Find out more about their offerings by visiting their website. Call (402) 463-0025 to make an appointment today.