Willcox, AZ Hail Storm – July 2026

A severe thunderstorm produced up to 1.5-inch hail in Willcox, AZ on July 9, 2026, in the late afternoon. The storm prompted an NWS severe thunderstorm warning and later local reports documenting the larger hail size.

What Happened

The thunderstorm moved across Willcox during the late afternoon into early evening on July 9. The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 4:53 PM MST for expected quarter-size hail. The warning noted expected hail up to 1.0 inch and was designated as an NWS warning only case. Subsequent ground and radar-integrated reports indicated hail up to 1.5 inches in isolated locations within the warning area.

Storm motion was generally east-southeast across the Willcox metro. Reports and warning timing place the most intense hail core in the 4:45–5:15 PM MST window. No additional NWS alerts were issued for this single-zone event after the 4:53 PM MST warning. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail at 1.5 inches in diameter typically produces denting to vehicle body panels and light fixtures. Asphalt shingle roofs that are older or already weathered can show granular loss and bruising that may accelerate wear. Vinyl siding and soft metals can exhibit dents and cosmetic loss. Full shingle rupture is less common at this size but can occur on degraded roofing.

Window breakage is uncommon at 1.5 inches unless hail is wind-driven or striking glass at a vulnerable point. Skylights, solar panels, and exposed air-conditioning coils are higher-risk targets. Documented local reports for this event should be matched to property-level inspections before adjudicating any claims.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize visual roof inspections from the ground and, where safe, from ladders. Look for granule loss, bruising patterns, and dented flashings. Photograph all observations with a dated reference or GPS-enabled device. Record the time of inspection and the address inside the warning area for claim support.

Inspect vehicles, mechanical equipment, and exterior building components next. Check gutters, downspouts, HVAC fins, and solar array surfaces. Avoid climbing on roofs with slippery loose granules or on steep slopes without fall protection. For precise hail placement and to coordinate canvasses, reference the Strike Map for the detailed damage zone and hail track information.