The Treasure Coast hail season is officially underway, marked by a severe hailstorm that impacted northern St. Lucie County on Tuesday morning, March 25, 2025. Meteorologists from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Melbourne identified a severe thunderstorm on radar around 8 a.m., prompting an immediate weather warning for the region.

Severe Hailstorm Hits Northern St. Lucie County

According to Will Ulrich, the warning coordinator meteorologist at the NWS in Melbourne, the storm was closely monitored for approximately 30 minutes before it moved offshore. The storm’s maximum wind gust reached 53 mph, recorded at the Treasure Coast International Airport just north of Fort Pierce.

“This was a very isolated storm that developed,” Ulrich stated, highlighting the localized nature of the event.

Local Resident Experiences First Hailstorm

Becky Springsteen, a resident of River Woods, was preparing for her workday when the hailstorm began. She reported hearing hail striking her metal roof continuously for about five minutes. Upon inspection, Springsteen discovered her back deck covered in approximately three inches of dime-sized hail.

“I have never in my life witnessed a hailstorm,” Springsteen said. Fortunately, she reported no damage to her property, and her neighbors experienced significantly less accumulation. Her dog, Roxy, enjoyed playing in and eating the ice.

Typical Conditions for Treasure Coast Hail Season

Ulrich explained that hailstorms are common on the Treasure Coast during February, March, and April. This period represents the peak of hail season due to colder temperatures in the middle and upper atmosphere.

“When we do get enough moisture to create thunderstorms during spring, those storms tend to become prolific hail producers relative to the storms that we see throughout the entire year,” Ulrich noted.

Cold Front Expected to Impact Region

The hailstorm was part of broader atmospheric instability and moisture preceding a cold front expected to move through the Treasure Coast area Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Following the initial storm activity, meteorologists anticipated a lull before conditions became favorable again for additional thunderstorms later in the afternoon and evening.

Tuesday’s weather forecast included a low risk of severe thunderstorms, with potential hazards including lightning, wind gusts up to 60 mph, and hail as large as a quarter. Rain chances varied between 30-50%, with Martin County having the highest likelihood of precipitation.

Upcoming Weather Forecast for the Treasure Coast

After the passage of the cold front, the rest of the week is expected to be dry and pleasant. High temperatures are forecasted to hover around 80 degrees, with lows in the 60s through Saturday. Rain chances are not anticipated to return until Sunday, when winds shift to a more southerly direction.

Ulrich mentioned the possibility of another low-pressure area moving across Florida, although it remains too early to confirm specific details.

Frequently Asked Questions About Treasure Coast Hail Season

What is hail season on the Treasure Coast?

Hail season on the Treasure Coast occurs from February through April. During these months, colder air higher in the atmosphere creates conditions favorable for hail-producing thunderstorms.

How much damage can hailstorms cause in Port St. Lucie?

Damage from hailstorms varies based on hail size, wind speed, and storm duration. Smaller hail typically causes minimal damage, while larger hail can damage roofs, vehicles, and landscaping. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hailstorms in the U.S. cause billions of dollars in damage annually.

Are hailstorms common in PSL?

Yes, hailstorms are relatively common in Port St. Lucie and the surrounding Treasure Coast area during late winter and early spring. This seasonal weather pattern occurs annually.

Can you predict when hailstorms will occur on the Treasure Coast?

Meteorologists can forecast conditions favorable for hailstorms but cannot predict exact timing or locations far in advance. Severe weather warnings are issued when storms develop.

Where are hailstorms most likely to happen in St. Lucie County?

Hailstorms can occur anywhere in St. Lucie County, including Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie. However, specific locations vary with each storm, making precise predictions difficult.

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