Willcox, AZ Hail Storm – July 2026

Willcox, AZ experienced a short-lived hail event on July 19, 2026, producing a radar-derived peak hail size of 1.11 inches during the late afternoon into early evening. The storm concluded the same evening after moving through the Willcox warning area.

What Happened

The thunderstorm developed over Cochise County and intensified in late afternoon. The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 5:37 PM MST for 1-inch hail covering the Willcox warning area. Dual-polarization NEXRAD returned strong hail signatures as the cell moved northeast across the warning area. Radar-detected hail echoes and elevated reflectivity cores corresponded with the NWS warning time window.

No ongoing activity remained after the early evening hours; the event is listed as concluded. This single-zone report covers the Willcox municipal area and adjacent rural addresses within the warning area. Field reports were limited; the alert sequence and radar detections are the primary indicators of hail occurrence.

Damage Assessment

Hail in this size range typically produces cosmetic and functional damage to vehicles and exposed equipment. Expect denting to body panels, chipped paint, and shallow windshield pitting on unprotected vehicles located in the warning area. Roof coverings are at risk of granular loss and shingle splitting on older or weathered asphalt roofs. Metal sidings and HVAC unit fins may sustain dents and bent surfaces.

Glass skylights, solar panel coatings, and unsecured outdoor fixtures are susceptible to localized breakage or surface abrasion. Damage patterns are likely to be patchy along the storm's path rather than uniform across the entire warning area. Photographic documentation of individual assets will be necessary to substantiate repairs.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize site safety before any inspection. Confirm power to rooftop equipment is de-energized and avoid ladder work in residual wind. Conduct a visual perimeter survey from the ground first, then perform targeted rooftop inspections for granule loss, shingle fractures, and displaced flashing. Vehicles and light structures should be cataloged separately from structural roofing damage.

Document all findings with geotagged photos and time-stamped notes. Apply temporary coverings only where openings are present and access is safe. Coordinate replacement material orders based on measured loss and visible exposure. Keep repair estimates itemized by location within the Willcox warning area and maintain clear chains of custody for any removed debris or components.

The paid Strike Map provides the precise hail track and the damage zone for this event.