Livingston, TX Hail Storm – May 2026

Livingston, TX experienced a multi-zone severe hail event on May 10, 2026, producing a peak radar-detected hailstone of 4.04 inches. The storm moved through the Livingston metro in the early evening and concluded after midnight.

What Happened

The event generated 22 NWS alerts between 7:00 PM CDT and 12:45 AM CDT. Early alerts were issued as NWS warning only; the sequence later included multiple dual-polarization radar (NEXRAD) hail detections across the Livingston metro. Radar returns repeatedly indicated hail signatures above 1.5 inches, and several separate radar detections exceeded 2 inches in diameter. Alerts and radar signatures tracked along a multi-zone corridor through the notification zones that cover Livingston and adjacent areas. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Multiple radar-detected hail signatures above 2 inches across the warning area indicate a heightened likelihood of vehicle body and roofing impacts along the storm path. NWS warning-only alerts widened the geographic footprint of potentially affected addresses inside the warning area. Hail in the 1–2 inch range commonly produces denting to vehicle panels and cosmetic damage to metal siding and gutters. Hail above 2 inches increases the probability of cracked glazing, punctured composite roofing, and torn or displaced shingles. Where radar detections clustered and where multiple alerts overlapped, the frequency of impacts to parked vehicles and exposed equipment is expected to be higher. On-site verification is required to determine the scope and severity of actual damage at specific properties.

What Contractors Should Know

Safety and documentation are first priorities. Perform an initial safety assessment before accessing roofs or elevated areas. Photograph full-property context, close-ups of impacts, and any penetrations to roof coverings. Record the inspection date and local time, the customer address, and the visible hail sizes on photos. Use aerial imagery or drone footage where allowed and safe to capture overall roof impact density. Note areas with concentrated pitting, torn shingles, or broken vents for priority repairs.

For estimates, separate cosmetic from functional damage. Inspect underlayment, flashing, skylights, gutters, and HVAC units for impact-related failures. Measure impact density per roof plane to inform replacement versus targeted repair decisions. Document potential leak sources and recommend moisture testing where denting or shingle loss is present. Maintain clear chains of custody for photographs and signed client authorizations. Consult insurers on preferred claim documentation formats and retain all field notes for potential follow-up.

Refer to the Strike Map (paid product) for the precise, radar-derived hail track and damage zone locations.