Gillette, WY Hail Storm – July 2026

StormSnipe recorded a hail-producing storm in Gillette, WY on July 8, 2026, producing hail up to 2.08 inches. The event moved through the metro area in late afternoon into early evening and generated multiple NWS alerts based on radar hail detection.

What Happened

The storm developed across northeast Wyoming in the late afternoon and entered the Gillette metro area around mid-afternoon, then produced intermittent hail into early evening. The NWS issued six radar-derived hail alerts for the multi-zone event. Alerts and timing were: 2:13 PM MDT – 1.25-inch radar-detected hail; 3:32 PM MDT – 1.66-inch radar-detected hail; 4:13 PM MDT – 1.25-inch radar-detected hail; 4:18 PM MDT – 1.50-inch radar-detected hail; 4:35 PM MDT – 1.25-inch radar-detected hail; 7:05 PM MDT – 1.47-inch radar-detected hail. Dual-polarization NEXRAD data indicated repeat hail cores across overlapping warning areas during the 3 PM to 5 PM window. Storm returns weakened after 7 PM local time and the event is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Radar-detected hail sizes in Gillette ranged from roughly 1.25 inches to the peak radar measurement of 2.08 inches. Hail at 1.25 inch commonly produces cosmetic and functional damage to vehicles, including dents to metal panels and broken mirrors. Hail between 1.5 and 1.75 inches increases risk to asphalt shingle roofs, causing bruising, granule loss, and missing shingles in older systems. The 2.08-inch peak measurement reaches sizes capable of cracking or shattering tempered glass and causing concentrated damage to roof coverings, skylights, and vulnerable rooftop equipment.

Observed alert timing places the most intense hail cores over populated sections of the Gillette metro in the late afternoon. Insurance and repair assessments should consider that damage may be patchy across yards and parking areas, with higher impact where radar returns were strongest. Field verification is required to map exact impact locations and to distinguish between hail-caused failures and pre-existing wear.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and documentation on initial visits. Wear appropriate PPE for residual wet or icy surfaces. Photograph damage at multiple scales with timestamps and location markers. Capture vehicle panels, roof eaves, gutters, and any broken glazing. Note roof system age, material, and any prior repairs. Collect statements from property owners about when and where hail was observed.

Inspect roofing first for obvious breaches and granule loss. Focus on metal roofs, asphalt shingle hips and ridges, skylights, and solar arrays. Provide temporary cover for exposed openings and secure loose materials before leaving the site. Prepare scope and pricing options that separate hail-specific repairs from general maintenance. Time-stamp estimates and retain aerial or drone imagery where safe and legal to do so. Coordinate with adjusters and provide clear photo sequences that match the storm timing.