Putnam, OK Hail Storm – July 2026

A multi-cell thunderstorm tracked through Putnam, OK on July 12, 2026, producing hail up to 1.58 inches. The storm is active and continuing to produce hail while generating multiple NWS alerts.

What Happened

The storm developed in mid-morning and produced a sequence of three NWS alerts as it tracked through Putnam. At 7:55 AM CDT (12:55 UTC) the first alert reported 1.28-inch hail detected by dual-polarization radar. At 8:29 AM CDT (13:29 UTC) the NWS issued a warning reporting 0.88-inch hail on the warning polygon with no radar confirmation noted. At 8:57 AM CDT (13:57 UTC) dual-polarization radar detected the largest returns, measuring up to 1.58 inches. The system is tracking northeast through the municipal and surrounding rural areas and remains active as of this report.

Radar-detected hail signatures bracket the strongest cores. One alert came from a warning polygon issued by the NWS without matching radar hail signatures. Storm motion has been generally northeast at moderate speed. Field conditions are still evolving and additional radar returns or NWS alerts are possible while the storm continues.

Damage Assessment

Hail in this event ranges from stones under one inch to larger stones capable of producing denting and localized structural damage. Stones of this scale commonly dent vehicle body panels and can break single-pane skylights. Older asphalt shingles and exposed siding materials are at elevated risk of granular loss, cracking, and displacement when struck by larger stones.

Local residential properties with unsecured outdoor equipment, unprotected glass, or older roofing systems are most vulnerable. Agricultural assets with lightweight coverings and plastic structures are prone to puncture. No field-verified damage reports are included in this live snapshot; damage potential is assessed from radar-detected hail sizes and the warning polygon geometry.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety checks before deploying crews. Confirm the storm has passed and utilities are de-energized near work areas. Use weather monitoring and the latest NWS updates to verify an all-clear. Triage inspections should begin with vehicles, skylights, and accessible roof edges. Photograph and timestamp all observed damage with a visible scale. Do not start roof work until mounting points and roof decks are stable.

For repair planning, inventory common failure points observed after hail events of this scale: dented metal panels, fractured glazing, displaced roof granules, and punctured soft covers. Prepare tarping materials and UV-stable temporary covers for exposed areas. Document pre-repair condition with photos and notes for insurance and billing. Access precise hail track data through the paid Strike Map to align repairs with the radar-derived hail track and prioritize canvass zones.