Roscoe, SD Hail Storm – May 2026

Roscoe, SD experienced a hail-producing thunderstorm on May 31, 2026, producing peak stones of 1.74 inches and a sequence of radar-detected hail alerts from late afternoon into late evening. The event has concluded.

What Happened

NWS issued eight hail alerts for the Roscoe warning area between 4:25 PM CDT and 9:33 PM CDT on May 31. Each alert was based on dual-polarization radar hail signatures across the same general track through the town. Alert timing and radar hail estimates were: 4:25 PM CDT – 1.05 inch; 5:15 PM CDT – 1.00 inch; 5:33 PM CDT – 1.52 inch; 6:08 PM CDT – 1.34 inch; 6:30 PM CDT – 1.62 inch; 7:14 PM CDT – 1.06 inch; 7:40 PM CDT – 1.22 inch; 9:33 PM CDT – 1.37 inch.

Radar returns showed repeated hail signatures along an east-northeast track through Roscoe. Local storm intensity peaked in the early evening window with several cells producing quarter- to near-1.6-inch radar hail estimates. NWS warnings covered the broad warning area; radar detections provided the basis for the individual hail estimates. The storm concluded by nightfall.

Damage Assessment

Multiple radar-detected hail signatures exceeded 1 inch across the Roscoe warning area. Hail of this size range frequently produces denting to vehicle body panels and loss of shingle granules on asphalt roofs. In Roscoe, exposures most likely to show visible effects are parked vehicles in residential streets and unprotected equipment on farmsteads near town.

Repeated hail pulses in the early evening increase the likelihood of cumulative shingle granule loss and localized bruising on siding or soft metal trim. Metal roofs can show cosmetic dents even where shingles remain intact. Roofs with prior wear or exposed vents and skylights in Roscoe should be inspected first for granule loss, cracked shingle tabs, and point impacts.

What Contractors Should Know

Schedule rooftop and vehicle inspections in daylight with a partner and fall protection. Begin with properties inside the NWS warning area for Roscoe, then expand outward along the radar-detected track. Document damage with geotagged photos and note the time and address for each observation. Check for granule accumulation in gutters and at downspout outlets as an early indicator of shingle impact.

When prioritizing repairs, address water entry risks first. Temporary tarps over compromised roof areas can prevent further interior damage. For claims work, measure dent patterns and collect measurements of hail impressions when possible. Coordinate inspection reports with property owners and insurers and reference the radar timing window when logging observed conditions.

For precise hail track and exact impact points within the warning area, consult the Strike Map, which maps radar-derived hail detections and the paid damage zone for this event.