Hailstones are formed by ice crystals being tossed up and down inside storm clouds. Most hails measure between a quarter-inch to nearly 6 inches in diameter. In April of 1888, Moradabad in the present state of Uttar Pradesh experienced the worst hailstorm in the recorded history. People reported hailstones varying in size from pigeon’s eggs to the size of oranges. Larger hailstones fall at speeds exceeding 100 mph. About 230 people were killed in the hailstorm and there was extensive loss of livestock. Sixteen others died in the nearby Bareilly. The storm was accompanied by strong winds, which toppled many houses in the region. Most of the people who were injured or died were farmers of the community, who were working in their fields. By the time the storm had dissipated, there was accumulation of hail up to two feet.