Center, ND Hail Storm – July 2026

Center, ND, July 19, 2026. A multi-zone hail event produced a peak stone of 3.59 inches and sent intermittent large hail through the area from late afternoon into the early morning hours.

What Happened

The storm produced 13 NWS alerts between 5:17 PM CDT on July 19 and 2:20 AM CDT on July 20. Initial radar-detected hail was issued at 5:17 PM CDT with an early detection of roughly 1.75 inches. Dual-polarization NEXRAD hail detections accounted for seven of the alerts, including additional radar-detected reports at 5:25 PM CDT, 6:32 PM CDT, 7:02 PM CDT, 8:17 PM CDT, 9:39 PM CDT, and 9:56 PM CDT. Six alerts were NWS warning only, issued at 6:15 PM CDT, 9:10 PM CDT, 10:15 PM CDT, 10:39 PM CDT, 10:41 PM CDT, and 2:20 AM CDT.

Hail sizes reported in the alert sequence ranged from roughly 1 inch up to nearly 4 inches. The sequence shows intermittent intensification in the early evening, a period of repeated radar detections in the late evening, and isolated warnings into the pre-dawn hours. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail in this event ranged from near 1 inch to stones approaching 4 inches in diameter across Center, ND on July 19. Stones near 1 inch commonly dent vehicle panels and damage soft vinyl siding. Stones around 1.5 to 2 inches frequently crack asphalt shingles, dent metal roofing, and shatter skylights when striking at steep angles. Stones approaching 4 inches can cause broken windows, large-area roof failures on older or poorly fastened coverings, and severe damage to exposed mechanical equipment such as rooftop HVAC units.

Inspectors should expect a mix of cosmetic and functional damage. Vehicles parked outdoors in affected zones are likely to show body dents and broken glass. Residential roofs built within the last 10 years may show shingle loss or granule depletion; older roofs have elevated risk of through-roof penetration. Exterior soft materials such as siding, vinyl trim, and air conditioner housings commonly show impact marks at the sizes reported in the alert sequence.

What Contractors Should Know

Perform a prioritized safety-first roof survey. Document impacts with date, time, and GPS coordinates. Photograph each roof from multiple angles and include a close-up with a common object for scale. Start with properties reporting water intrusion or visible interior damage. Temporary tarping is appropriate where through-roof penetration or active leaks are present. Tarp work should be staged to minimize ladder time and to secure tarps to firm roof structure rather than loose shingles.

Assess mechanical and glazing systems next. Check rooftop HVAC units for dented housings and bent fins that reduce efficiency. Inspect windows and skylights for fractured panes and failed seals. Prepare concise scope-of-work estimates with separate line items for emergency repairs, full roof replacements, and mechanical replacements. Maintain time-stamped documentation for insurance claims and coordinate with property owners before performing non-emergency removals.