Gnarly scene from Novosibirsk, Russia where in 2014 a sudden 35° F temperature change plus strong winds triggered this hail storm which pelted a beach full of swimmers and sunbathers as they ran for cover. The lucky ones crowded under umbrellas. The hail stones were reportedly the size of cherries.

Francis Xavier is a seasoned writer for Unofficial Networks, bringing a lifetime of outdoor experience to his work. Having lived in a ski resort town for years he has a deep connection to mountain culture....