Roscoe, SD Hail Storm – May 2026

A hail-producing thunderstorm is tracking through Roscoe, SD on May 31, 2026, producing hail up to 1.74 inches in diameter. The storm is active and continuing to generate multiple NWS alerts and radar detections.

What Happened

The storm first produced radar-detected hail in the late afternoon and continued through the evening. NWS issued eight separate hail alerts tied to the same storm complex. Dual-polarization radar (NEXRAD) recorded repeated hail signatures along the storm track.

Alert sequence and radar-detected sizes (local times):

• May 31 · 4:25 PM CDT – 1.05 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 5:15 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 5:33 PM CDT – 1.52 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 6:08 PM CDT – 1.34 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 6:30 PM CDT – 1.62 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 7:14 PM CDT – 1.06 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 7:40 PM CDT – 1.22 inch hail (radar-detected)
• May 31 · 9:33 PM CDT – 1.37 inch hail (radar-detected)

These detections track through the Roscoe, SD metro. The alert sequence shows repeated hail signatures from late afternoon into the overnight period, and new returns are continuing as the storm moves. Field conditions may still be evolving.

Damage Assessment

Radar-detected hail within the NWS alerts ranged from roughly 1.00 to 1.62 inches along the observed track. Hail in that size band commonly produces denting on vehicles and may cause bruising or loss of granular material on asphalt shingles when impact is concentrated. Reported radar signatures around 5:33 PM CDT and 6:30 PM CDT show the strongest returns in the alert sequence.

Structures with older or marginal roofing material near the storm core should be inspected for pocked shingles, cracked roof vents, and dented metal surfaces. Windows and soft siding near exposure points should be checked for small punctures or impact marks. Because the storm is active, additional hail accumulations or localized larger stones are possible along the current path.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and documentation. Do not conduct roof work while storms are ongoing. Once conditions permit, photograph damage with timestamp and GPS metadata for every affected asset. Capture close-ups of hail impacts, a wide shot showing the roofline or vehicle, and a labeled note or scale reference in each image. Maintain a log of inspection times and locations tied to the NWS alert timestamps.

Triage repairs by exposure and material condition. Temporary tarps are appropriate where water infiltration is likely and permanent repairs are scheduled later. For vehicles, note dents and glass condition and advise owners to avoid powered outdoor cleaning until hail fragments and runoff have been removed. Coordinate with property owners and insurers before irreversible repairs.