KC Weatherman Introduces Potato-Sized Hail Scale Ahead of Storms

Meteorologist Luke Dorris' unique hail descriptor sparks debate and humor on social media.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, with a field of potatoes partially obscured by swirling, dramatic storm clouds in the foreground, conveying the overwhelming power of an impending severe weather event.As a severe storm system approaches, a Kansas City meteorologist's creative use of 'potato-sized hail' aims to raise awareness of the potential threat.Kansas City Today

As severe storms are predicted to hit the Kansas City area on Friday, local TV meteorologist Luke Dorris has been encouraging people to get on the 'ice potato bandwagon' when it comes to measuring the size of potential hail. Dorris argues that using potatoes as a visual reference for hail size is more accurate and less 'hype-y' than the standard 'softball' descriptor, since hailstones are irregularly shaped like potatoes rather than uniform like softballs.

Why it matters

Accurately measuring hail size is important for weather awareness and preparedness, as hail over 1 inch in diameter can cause significant property damage. Dorris' creative approach aims to provide a more relatable visual for residents to understand the potential threat.

The details

Dorris compared the typical 2- to 3-inch diameter of a standard baking potato to the 3.8-inch diameter of a regulation softball, arguing that potatoes better represent the irregular shape of hailstones. He has been encouraging his social media followers to 'get on the ice potato bandwagon' when it comes to describing the size of hail that may accompany the severe storms expected in the Kansas City area on Friday.

  • Storms expected to develop as early as 1-2 pm on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • Highest risk may be as schools let out in the late afternoon.

The players

Luke Dorris

A meteorologist who works for KCTV5 in Kansas City, Missouri. He received his bachelor of science in meteorology from the University of Oklahoma.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Frozen sky taters”

— Luke Dorris, Meteorologist

“Potatoes are a superior descriptor.”

— Luke Dorris, Meteorologist

What’s next

The severe storms are expected to hit the Kansas City area on Friday afternoon, with the highest risk as schools let out. Meteorologists will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for tornadoes and potato-sized hail.

The takeaway

Dorris' creative use of potatoes to describe hail size highlights the importance of finding relatable ways to communicate weather threats to the public. While some may debate the merits of his approach, it has succeeded in raising awareness and sparking discussion about preparedness ahead of the incoming storms.