Melrose, MT Hail Storm – July 2026

Melrose, MT experienced a severe hail event on July 15, 2026, with radar-detected hail up to 2.39 inches. The storm produced a single NWS warning area and is now concluded.

What Happened

The storm moved through Melrose in the early evening on July 15, 2026. The National Weather Service issued one warning area at 7:43 PM MDT citing radar-detected severe hail. Dual-polarization NEXRAD identified a distinct hail signature over the warning area. The warning covered the immediate Melrose vicinity and remained in effect for a short period before the storm weakened and concluded.

Reports available to StormSnipe were limited to the radar detection associated with that single warning area. No ongoing warnings were active after the event.

Damage Assessment

Hail this large commonly produces significant impact to exposed surfaces. Expect denting and punctures to vehicle body panels and glass. Asphalt shingles are at risk for bruising, torn granules, and fractured tabs. Metal roofing can show dents and fastener damage. Vinyl siding and skylights may crack or breach in concentrated swaths.

Agricultural exposures in and around Melrose can show leaf shredding and crop defoliation where hail concentration was highest. Young fruit and flowering stages are most vulnerable. Damage severity will vary across properties depending on sheltering, orientation, and roof material.

Field observations should prioritize visible penetration, displaced roofing material, shattered glass, and widespread loss of vegetative cover. Photographic documentation should capture scale with a ruler or coin in frame and include oblique shots of roof runout to show pattern and severity.

What Contractors Should Know

First priority is safety. Confirm that power and gas have been secured before roof access. Conduct an initial triage to identify explicit hazards such as compromised roof structures, broken skylights, or fallen debris. Use a ladder and fall protection appropriate for the roof pitch. Log each inspected address, time on site, and obvious failure modes in a standardized checklist.

Document repairs with high-resolution photos and concise notes tied to the address and inspection time. Measure and record representative hail damage points on at least three separate roof aspects when practical. For asphalt shingles, document broken tabs, exposed mat, and granular loss. For metal roofs, show dent patterns and fastener distortion. Provide itemized scope options for temporary tarps, spot repairs, and full replacements where warranted.

Access the Strike Map for the precise hail track and damage zone.