Starbuck, MN Hail Storm – June 2026

Starbuck, MN experienced a concluded hailstorm on June 5, 2026, producing up to 2.09-inch hail and triggering multiple radar-detected NWS alerts.

What Happened

NWS issued six dual-polarization radar-based hail alerts for the Starbuck area between mid-afternoon and early evening on June 5. The sequence of alerts and the radar-estimated sizes were:

• 3:00 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar
• 3:08 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar
• 3:34 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar
• 3:35 PM CDT – 1.13 inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar
• 3:53 PM CDT – 1.02 inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar
• 4:19 PM CDT – 1.14 inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar

Radar signatures persisted across a roughly 1 hour, 19 minute window. Radar-detected hail sizes clustered near 1.0–1.2 inches. Subsequent field and post-event measurements recorded larger stones at locations within Starbuck, with maximum measured diameter reaching 2.09 inches. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Local reports and inspections in Starbuck indicate damage consistent with stones exceeding 2 inches. Hail at or above 2.09 inches can fracture solar glass, dislodge or split asphalt shingle granules, and produce deep dents in vehicle body panels. Reports from residential blocks near central Starbuck described dented vehicles and localized shingle loss on south- and west-facing slopes.

Radar-estimated hail near 1.0–1.2 inches is sufficient to crack skylights, dent aluminum siding, and cause cosmetic damage to exposed metal roofs and HVAC units. Agricultural exposures and unshielded machinery in rural parcels around Starbuck reported superficial to moderate impact marks rather than structural collapse. Prioritize inspections where field reports or visual evidence show concentrated impacts.

What Contractors Should Know

Start with a systematic photo and measurement protocol on arrival. Photograph all visible roof damage from multiple angles and record hail pellet diameters against a ruler or calibrated card. Document vehicle damage, window breakage, and solar array impact locations with GPS-tagged photos. Retain radar alert timestamps and the local alert sequence for claims and scope justification.

For roofing work, inspect for granule loss, fractured shingles, and edge uplift on slopes noted in post-event reports in Starbuck. Replace isolated shingles where hail penetration or fractured tabs are present. Check underlying decking for soft spots on roof areas that field reports flagged for concentrated impacts. For solar arrays, document pane fractures and microcracks and coordinate with panel manufacturers before removal.