Dickens, TX Hail Storm – May 2026

Dickens, Texas recorded a hail-producing thunderstorm on May 31, 2026, with peak hail measured at 2.81 inches. The event ran from late afternoon into early evening and was characterized by multiple radar-detected hail signatures and NWS-issued warnings.

What Happened

The event produced 12 NWS alerts covering the Dickens warning area between 5:25 PM CDT and 9:54 PM CDT. Dual-polarization radar returned multiple hail detections; several alerts were issued on warning-only basis without a corresponding radar detection.

Alert sequence and detection method:

• May 31 · 5:25 PM CDT – 1.5" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 6:00 PM CDT – 2.35" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 6:53 PM CDT – 1.53" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 7:32 PM CDT – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• May 31 · 7:44 PM CDT – 1.41" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 7:57 PM CDT – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• May 31 · 8:16 PM CDT – 1.68" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 8:20 PM CDT – 1.0" hail – NWS warning only
• May 31 · 8:53 PM CDT – 1.65" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 9:01 PM CDT – 1.35" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 9:18 PM CDT – 1.35" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• May 31 · 9:54 PM CDT – 1.89" hail – dual-polarization radar detection

Radar-derived hail signatures and NWS warning polygons overlapped the municipal area and nearby rural roads at various times. The final NEXRAD-derived hail detection for the event was recorded at 9:54 PM CDT. The storm concluded after the last alert.

Damage Assessment

Radar detections include small stones and multi-inch hail signatures across the Dickens warning area. Where dual-polarization radar flagged large stones, the observed signatures are consistent with hail sizes capable of denting vehicles and causing impact damage to roofing materials in the town.

Property exposure will vary by location and cover type. Vehicles left outdoors in affected parts of Dickens are at higher risk of dents and broken glass where large radar returns occurred. Roofing composed of older or three-tab asphalt shingles is more likely to show bruising and granule loss from larger stones; newer laminated shingles and metal roofing show different damage patterns and should be inspected visually. No field-verified ground reports are included in this summary; use on-site inspection to confirm localized damage.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a safety-first site assessment. Document roof and siding conditions with dated photos and GPS coordinates before any repair work. Prioritize tarping for active leaks, then proceed to full inspections for hail impact on shingles, flashing, gutters, vehicles, and exposed equipment. Record manufacturer markings and take close-up images of granule loss, holes, and dents to support scope and insurance claims.