La Junta, CO Hail Storm – July 2026

La Junta, Colorado experienced a multi-zone hail event on July 8, 2026. Peak hail reached 2.68 inches in diameter as storms moved through the area in late afternoon and early evening.

What Happened

The storm produced a series of NWS radar-detected hail alerts across the La Junta warning area between mid-afternoon and early evening. Six alerts were issued for the event:

• July 8 · 1:38 PM MDT (19:38 UTC) – 1.25-inch hail, detected by dual-polarization radar.
• July 8 · 2:09 PM MDT (20:09 UTC) – 1.50-inch hail, radar-detected.
• July 8 · 4:50 PM MDT (22:50 UTC) – 1.63-inch hail, radar-detected.
• July 8 · 5:09 PM MDT (23:09 UTC) – 1.67-inch hail, radar-detected.
• July 8 · 5:15 PM MDT (23:15 UTC) – 1.69-inch hail, radar-detected.
• July 8 · 6:13 PM MDT (00:13 UTC) – 1.71-inch hail, radar-detected.

NWS alerts covered the La Junta notification zone for the period listed above. The sequence shows increasing hail sizes through late afternoon and into early evening. The event has concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail during the event exceeded golf-ball diameter and reached sizes associated with severe roof and siding damage. Stones in the reported range commonly cause asphalt shingle bruising, granule loss, and cracked sealant; repeated impacts can split shingle laminate and expose the underlying mat. Metal panels and vinyl siding frequently show deep dents and punctures at these sizes. Vehicle panels and unshielded glazing are at risk for significant dents and shattered glass.

In La Junta city limits expect roof systems installed within the last 10 years to show surface damage and older systems to have an elevated risk of through-the-roof failure at impact points. Landscaping and field crops in and around the municipal area are likely to show defoliation and surface bruising consistent with large hail.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and documentation. Pair a visual exterior inspection with photographic evidence that includes a measurable scale and GPS or timestamped location. Note the time of inspection and use common size references such as a coin or ruler in images. Triage work by hazard first: active leaks, compromised structural elements, and exposed insulation. Use noninvasive checks before roof access. Confirm ladder and fall-protection setup before stepping onto roofs.

Temporary repairs should stabilize water entry points and preserve evidence for insurance review. Secure tarps to prevent further interior damage but avoid aggressive fasteners that create additional penetrations. For asphalt roofing, replace shingles where mat or laminate is broken or where sealant has failed across multiple courses. For metal and vinyl, assess panel replacement versus cosmetic repair based on fastener field spacing and load path. Provide clear line-item documentation for homeowners and insurers and schedule follow-up inspections for concealed damage.