Decker, MT Hail Storm – June 2026

Decker, MT experienced a concluded, multi-zone hail event on June 26, 2026, with a peak hail size of 1.52 inches. The storm produced a sequence of NWS warnings and radar-detected hail during the early evening.

What Happened

The event unfolded in the early evening and concluded later that night. Three NWS alerts covered the storm path. At 6:03 PM MDT the NWS issued a warning noting 1-inch hail with a NWS-warning-only confidence. At 6:16 PM MDT a second NWS warning again cited 1-inch hail with NWS-warning-only confidence. At 8:14 PM MDT dual-polarization radar detected hail up to 1.22 inches along portions of the track. The radar detection supplemented the earlier warning-only alerts and extended the mapped hail corridor into surrounding rural areas. The report is an aggregate across multiple warning areas for Decker and nearby zones. The event is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail sizes observed during this event ranged from the 1-inch class cited in the early warnings up to a peak measurement of 1.52 inches. In Decker and nearby rural properties, hail in this size range commonly causes asphalt shingle bruising and localized granule loss on roof surfaces. Vehicles exposed in yards and driveways are likely to show dents on body panels and hail-induced paint damage. Vinyl siding can exhibit pockmarks and cosmetic damage. Agricultural assets such as irrigation heads, exposed equipment, and lighter outbuildings may have dents or surface impacts.

Windows and skylights are less often shattered by hail under 2 inches, but chips and stress cracks can occur where impacts concentrate. Solar arrays and mounted equipment should be inspected for microfractures and cell breakage. Roof cover materials with existing wear are more vulnerable to accelerated deterioration after this event. Field checks in Decker should prioritize visible roof panels, vehicle exteriors, and exposed farm infrastructure for documented signs of impact.

What Contractors Should Know

Safety and documentation come first. Schedule exterior inspections during daylight to assess visible damage and to photograph hail impact patterns with timestamps. Start with roofs that show granule loss, then inspect gutters, siding, vehicles, and solar installations. Record exact locations and note if a property was under an NWS warning polygon or within radar-detected hail swaths. Temporary tarps or covers can protect exposed interiors, but apply only after a measured assessment and with owner authorization.

Estimate repair needs based on measured damage and material condition. Expect concentrated requests for asphalt shingle replacement and vehicle dent repair in Decker and adjacent properties. Stock common asphalt shingles, underlayment, and sealants when possible, and confirm lead times with suppliers. Coordinate documentation packages for claims, including photos, timestamps, and references to the NWS warning times and radar-detected hail evidence when applicable. Prioritize safety for crews working on ladders or roofs after recent hail and wind.