Pacific Junction, IA Hail Storm – May 2026

Pacific Junction, IA recorded pea-sized hail in the late afternoon on May 22, 2026. The event produced a short-lived thunderstorm that prompted a single NWS warning.

What Happened

A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Pacific Junction at 5:47 PM CDT on May 22, 2026. The NWS warning cited the potential for quarter-inch to three-quarter-inch hail. Radar indicated hail echo signatures moving northeast across the municipal area during the late afternoon. The warning was labeled NWS warning only. The episode ran for under an hour and concluded the same evening.

Storm motion was generally northeast at a moderate forward speed. The system delivered a compact hail swath concentrated over the town and immediate outskirts. No additional NWS alerts were issued for this cell after the 5:47 PM warning.

Damage Assessment

Hail in this size class is pea-sized and typically causes cosmetic abrasion rather than structural failure. Expect superficial scuffs to soft vinyl surfaces and minor pitting on vehicle paint where impacts were direct. Roof shingles are unlikely to suffer loss of weatherproofing from single, small-diameter impacts, but prolonged exposure across many shingles can increase wear on aged roofing materials.

Glass and skylights generally remain intact at this intensity, though lightweight patio furniture and garden plants may show leaf scarring and surface bruising. Inspectors should prioritize photographic documentation of any localized dents on metal surfaces and surface abrasion on siding when compiling estimates.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize quick external assessments. Start with roofing, vehicles, and exposed siding in the areas directly beneath the storm track. Record clear, dated photos with orientation and reference points. Note soft-surface abrasion, isolated dents, and any displaced trim. For roofing, focus on granule loss and shingle edges. Small hail rarely requires full shingle replacement, but document locations where repeated abrasion or pre-existing wear may warrant repairs.

Provide homeowners with conservative, itemized estimates. Include inspection notes for gutters, skylights, and exterior trim. Offer temporary measures where water entry is possible, and schedule follow-up inspections for marginal cases. Maintain clear scope descriptions so cosmetic repairs are separated from structural work. Verify access and homeowner authorization before beginning any on-site mitigation.

The Strike Map provides precise hail track and damage zone coordinates for this event.