Eldorado, OK Hail Storm – May 2026

Eldorado, OK experienced a concluded hail event late afternoon on May 18, 2026, with stones reaching 1.25 inches in diameter along a multi-zone track. The storm generated a sequence of NWS severe thunderstorm warnings across the metro warning area.

What Happened

The event unfolded across late afternoon into early evening local time. Five NWS alerts were issued for the storm in Eldorado's warning area:

• May 18 · 4:19 PM CDT (21:19 UTC) – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• May 18 · 4:41 PM CDT (21:41 UTC) – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• May 18 · 4:52 PM CDT (21:52 UTC) – 1" hail – NWS warning only
• May 18 · 5:25 PM CDT (22:25 UTC) – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• May 18 · 5:57 PM CDT (22:57 UTC) – 1" hail – NWS warning only

All five alerts were issued as NWS warning only. The warning stream indicates that hail signatures were identified by warning operations and relayed to the public, but the alert metadata does not include spotter-verification details for each issuance. The event is recorded as concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail of this size commonly produces vehicle denting and localized siding damage where exposure is greatest. Asphalt shingle roofing may show bruising, granule loss, and accelerated wear on windward exposures and ridgelines. Metal roof panels, HVAC condenser fins, and exposed soft metals are at elevated risk of dents and functional impairment. Glass is at lower risk at these diameters but vulnerable on skylights and unprotected panes.

Damage distribution is typically patchy along the hail track. Expect isolated clusters of heavier impact where stones were larger or fell through open canopy. Inspect gutters, downspouts, and exterior trim for impact marks and accumulated granules that indicate roof surface loss.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and documentation. Complete a perimeter safety assessment before roof access. Photograph hail impacts with scale references and GPS coordinates. Capture pre-work and post-work images of affected vehicles, roof fields, trim, and mechanical equipment. Record the local alert timeline and any on-site witness times to correlate field observations with the NWS warning stream.

For scope and repair decisions, evaluate shingles for fractured tabs, exposed mat, and granule loss concentrated on the windward side. Replace isolated shingles with visible fracture or significant granule depletion. For metal panels and HVAC fins, document dents and operational issues; minor cosmetic dents can be deferred, but compromised fins or bent condensers that reduce cooling efficiency should be repaired or replaced. Provide clients with clear line-item photos and a concise timeline tied to the May 18 alert sequence for claims and permitting.