Kress, TX Hail Storm – May 2026

Kress, TX experienced a late-afternoon hail event on May 14, 2026, with hail reaching 1.08 inches in diameter and the storm now concluded.

What Happened

A single-zone storm produced hail over Kress in the late afternoon of May 14, 2026. The National Weather Service issued one warning at 5:46 PM CDT for 0.75-inch hail (NWS warning only). The warning polygon covered the local community as the cell moved through the area. Post-event analysis indicates larger hail diameters occurred within the warning area. Radar-derived detections and automated measurements were used to map the event; no active cells remain associated with this storm.

Damage Assessment

Hail measured at 1.08 inches falls into the one-inch class. For residential and automotive exposures in Kress, that size commonly produces denting to vehicle body panels and damage to exposed metal surfaces. Asphalt shingle roofs showing pre-existing granule loss are at elevated risk of bruising and accelerated wear where hail struck directly. Vinyl siding and skylights are vulnerable to impact where hail fell at terminal speed. There are no field reports included on this public page indicating catastrophic structural failure within the Kress city limits for this event.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize rapid exterior inspections in the mapped area. Photograph vehicle panels, roof coverings, gutters, and siding with a clear scale reference. On roofs, document shingle granule loss, bruising, and any punctures visible at ridges and eaves. Use attic inspections to check for through-penetrations or water stains that would indicate compromised roofing beneath the visible surface.

For repair planning, triage work by immediate leak risk and by insurance claim priority. Temporary tarps and rapid flashing repairs reduce further interior damage while permanent estimates are prepared. Log inspection dates, coordinates, and photo timestamps for each property. Coordinate with adjusters and provide measured hail-size context for material selection and warranty discussions.

See the Strike Map for precise hail track and paid damage zone data for this event.