Lambert, MT Hail Storm – May 2026

Lambert, MT, on May 26, 2026, experienced a late-afternoon hail event that produced up to 1.83-inch hail and triggered multiple NWS alerts. The storm moved through town between mid-afternoon and early evening before concluding.

What Happened

The event began in the mid-afternoon and produced four National Weather Service alerts across the aggregate zone. NWS issued a warning at 3:43 PM MDT reporting 0.88-inch hail that was listed as NWS warning only. A second NWS warning followed at 3:58 PM MDT for 0.75-inch hail and remained NWS warning only. At 5:15 PM MDT, dual-polarization radar detected 0.75-inch hail in the area. A final NWS warning at 6:03 PM MDT reported 0.75-inch hail and was listed as NWS warning only. The sequence shows repeated NWS warning activity with one radar-detected hail report during late afternoon and early evening. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Peak hail measured 1.83 inches within the aggregate zone covering Lambert. Hail at this size in Lambert is large enough to dent unprotected vehicles and to fracture or displace asphalt shingles on residential roofs. Metal surfaces, skylights, and exterior siding in town are also at risk of impact dents and surface abrasion. Agricultural parcels and grazed fields on the outskirts are susceptible to defoliation and bruising of tender crops.

The alert record for this event contains radar detection and NWS warning-only messages; there are no spotter-verified damage reports included in the alert sequence provided here. Local property owners in Lambert should complete visual inspections of vehicles, roof coverings, gutters, and outdoor equipment for denting, chipped finishes, missing granules, or cracked glazing.

What Contractors Should Know

Initial field work should prioritize safety and rapid assessment. Confirm that electrical lines and walkable roof surfaces are safe before crews access properties. Tarp any exposed roofing areas where hail has broken underlayment or lifted shingles. Photograph damage with a dated scale reference and capture wide and close views for each structure. Log addresses within the Lambert municipal boundary and adjacent rural parcels separately for insurance documentation.

When estimating repairs, inspect for fractured shingle tabs, concentrated granule loss, dent patterns on metal panels, and punctures in skylights or HVAC units. Single isolated dents on vehicles or sparse granule loss may justify repairs rather than full replacement. Extensive shingle fracture, multiple penetrations, or loss of roof weatherproofing typically requires replacement. Provide homeowners and property managers clear, itemized estimates and archive pre- and post-repair photos.

For precise mapping of the hail track and the paid damage zone for Lambert, see the Strike Map product.