Which statement is true concerning the hazards of hail?

The statement regarding hailstones potentially being encountered in clear air several miles from a thunderstorm is accurate and reflects important meteorological knowledge. Hail is formed within strong updrafts found in thunderstorms, but it can be ejected from these storms by powerful downdrafts or can also drift away from the thunderstorm due to the wind at different altitudes. This means that it is possible to encounter hail outside the immediate vicinity of a thunderstorm, even in what appears to be clear air, making it particularly dangerous for pilots who may not anticipate the presence of hail when flying away from a storm system.

Understanding this aspect of hail dynamics is crucial for flight safety, as pilots may not be prepared to deal with unexpected hail encounters if they assume it’s only present in the storm itself. This insight emphasizes the strategic importance of closely monitoring weather conditions and recognizing the possibility of hail impact beyond visible storm clouds.