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Weather theoryQuestion 353 of 934

Rain is falling at the surface under a thunderstorm. What does this say about hail aloft?

  1. Rain at the surface does not rule out hail aloft
  2. Hail cannot be present if rain reaches the ground
  3. Hail is present only above the anvil
  4. Hail forms only if the surface temperature is below freezing
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Correct answer: Rain at the surface does not rule out hail aloft

Hailstones can melt as they fall through air above 0 °C. Expect possible hail with any thunderstorm.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 12: Weather Theory — Thunderstorms, page 309

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026