Marathon, TX Hail Storm – May 2026

A multi-zone thunderstorm produced up to 2.49-inch hail in Marathon, TX on May 31, 2026. The event occurred in the late afternoon and has concluded.

What Happened

NWS issued three warning updates for the Marathon area during late afternoon. At 4:40 PM CDT the first warning noted radar-detected hail near 2.21 inches. A follow-up at 4:46 PM CDT reported radar-detected hail near 2.20 inches. A third warning at 5:21 PM CDT again cited radar-detected hail near 2.21 inches. Dual-polarization NEXRAD hail detection tracked elevated reflectivity consistent with large stones across a multi-zone swath through the Marathon metro area. Storm motion carried the strongest reflectivity east-southeast across local roadways and sparsely populated tracts in and around Marathon.

Damage Assessment

Hail this size can cause immediate, visible damage to exposed property in the Marathon area. Rooftop impact commonly breaks or fractures asphalt shingles and can split older or brittle roof coverings. Metal roofing and HVAC condenser coils frequently show punctures and dents after encounters with large stones. Vehicle body panels, paint, and glass are at high risk of denting and shattering when directly struck. Residential glass features such as skylights and patio furniture can sustain concentrated damage where stones fell at roofline or yard level. Vegetation impacts include defoliation and bruising of soft fruits over localized patches. Recorded radar-derived hail points and the timing of warnings indicate the greatest damage potential occurred along the storm’s east-southeast track in Marathon.

What Contractors Should Know

Inspect roofs immediately for shingle loss, fractured laminate, and punctures. Prioritize structures with south- and east-facing exposures along the storm path. Photograph every damaged area with a scale reference and time-stamp. Record roof slope, material type, and visible underlayment exposure. For vehicles, document hail dents on body panels and glass from multiple angles. Keep full-frame and close detail shots to support insurance submissions.

Establish temporary protection where interiors are exposed. Use industry-standard tarping techniques and secure fasteners to prevent water intrusion. Coordinate with licensed roof evaluators for lift-and-replace decisions on laminated and architectural shingles. Log all labor hours, materials, and site visits. Retain a copy of the NWS warning times and radar-derived hail points for the claim file.

For precise, radar-derived hail track data and the paid damage zone product, see the Strike Map for this event.