Syracuse, KS Hail Storm – June 2026

Syracuse, KS experienced a late-night severe hail event on June 15–16, 2026 with radar-detected hail up to 2.79 inches. The multi-alert, radar-derived storm moved through the Syracuse metro before concluding after midnight.

What Happened

Dual-polarization NEXRAD hail detection produced three consecutive NWS alerts tied to the Syracuse metro. The first alert issued at 11:07 PM CDT on June 15 indicated radar-detected hail around 1.57 inches. A second alert at 11:35 PM CDT updated the hail signal near 1.53 inches. A third alert at 12:05 AM CDT on June 16 recorded a radar peak near 2.00 inches, with subsequent analysis showing a maximum radar-derived return of 2.79 inches across the aggregate event. The radar signatures were concentrated along a roughly north–south corridor through the Syracuse metro. The storm concluded after the 12:05 AM alert and is no longer active on NWS products.

Damage Assessment

Radar-detected hail during this event included multiple occurrences above 1.5 inches and a peak return approaching 3 inches. Hail of this magnitude is consistent with vehicle body damage, dented metal panels, and significant shingle loss on asphalt roofs. Properties with older or unprotected roofing in central and outlying Syracuse neighborhoods are at higher risk for exposed decking and punctured skylights. Windows and vinyl siding in exposed locations can show impact cracking or holes from 2-inch-plus hail. Agricultural acres within the Syracuse metro footprint may show leaf shredding and ear damage on corn, particularly where the storm's stronger cores passed overhead.

On-the-ground spotter reports tied to specific addresses were limited in the public alert set. Inspection prioritization should focus on parked vehicles, carports, and homes with recent roofing work or known preexisting wear. Photograph damage with scale references and time stamps. Keep an itemized list of affected vehicles, structures, and crop fields to support contractor estimates.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with safety and documentation. Verify power is de-energized before accessing damaged roofs. Photograph every roof quadrant and vehicle from multiple angles. Note hail size indicators in photos, such as coins or rulers. Tarping or temporary patching should be prioritized where water intrusion is possible. For tarping, secure fasteners outside damaged areas where feasible and document all temporary repairs with time-stamped images.

Estimate scope using photos and measured hail indicators. Expect to replace heavily granulated rooftops and to repair dented metal components on vehicles and farm equipment. Provide line-item pricing for temporary work, full replacement, and windows. Retain samples of impacted materials and note serial or VIN numbers for insured vehicles. Schedule follow-up inspections for secondary moisture damage and advise property owners on preserving evidence for claims.