What is a correct statement about weather hazards associated with thunderstorms?

The statement that hail can reach altitudes up to 45,000 feet is accurate and reflects the dangerous conditions associated with thunderstorms. Hail forms within severe thunderstorms as updrafts carry water droplets upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, where they freeze. These updrafts can be powerful, allowing hailstones to grow larger as they are carried up and down within the storm. The altitudes for these updrafts can indeed reach heights around 45,000 feet in severe thunderstorms, particularly in supercell formations, where very strong conditions exist. This potential for high altitude hail is a critical consideration for pilots and meteorologists, as it can pose significant hazards to aircraft.

Understanding this helps recognize the severe weather phenomena produced by thunderstorms, including hail, lightning, heavy rain, and turbulence, and emphasizes the importance of being vigilant when flying in or near these weather systems.