Severe hailstorm causes widespread damage in Baoding, China
A severe hailstorm struck Baoding, Hebei Province, on May 5, 2025, covering streets with hailstones up to 2 cm (0.8 inches) in diameter. The storm caused significant agricultural losses.
Image credit: Jim Yang
A severe hailstorm impacted multiple districts of Baoding, Hebei Province, on May 5, 2025. The event began around 17:20 local time (LT) and lasted approximately 10 minutes in most areas.
Hailstones ranging in size from pea-sized to 2 cm (0.8 inches) accumulated rapidly, blanketing roads and farmland. In some locations, hail depth reached the height of car wheels, rendering roads temporarily impassable.
Agricultural losses were significant, especially for wheat crops, while strong winds knocked down trees, increasing the damage.
In Dawangdian Town, Xushui District, residents reported hail beginning at 17:20 LT, accompanied by loud crackling as it struck homes and vehicles. A driver on Wusi Road in Baoding reported intermittent hail around 17:57 LT, with bursts lasting 2 to 3 minutes, causing vehicles to slow or stop.
Baoding, Hebei was hit by severe hail in the afternoon of May 6 pic.twitter.com/W5bWJkeM3h
— Jim (@yangyubin1998) May 7, 2025
The Baoding Meteorological Observatory issued an orange-level hail warning at 17:56 LT on May 5, covering Gaoyang, Qingyuan, Xushui, Mancheng, Lianchi, and Jingxiu districts, advising residents to take precautions.
On May 7, the China Meteorological Administration launched a Level-III emergency response for storms in Hebei and other provinces.
Minor flooding was reported in low-lying areas due to dense hail and subsequent melting.
References:
1 厚如积雪没过车轮 保定立夏降下史上罕见冰雹（视频）- New Tang Dynasty Television – May 7, 2025
2 China launches emergency response, alerts for natural disasters – The State Council: The People’s Republic of China – May 8, 2025
3 河北保定突降冰雹，当地居民：有蚕豆大，持续约10分钟 – Jimu News – May 5, 2o25
I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.