Saint Francis, ME Hail Storm – July 2026

StormSnipe recorded hail in Saint Francis, ME on July 22, 2026. The afternoon event produced a peak hail diameter of 1.14 inches and generated multiple NWS warnings.

What Happened

The storm progressed across the Saint Francis area during the late afternoon and early evening. NWS issued nine separate alerts between 2:25 PM EDT and 5:04 PM EDT. Reported hail sizes in the warning sequence ranged from 0.75–1.00 inches, with a radar-verified peak measurement at 1.14 inches. All nine alerts carried NWS warning only confidence, indicating warning issuance without additional spotter or public confirmation noted in the alert text.

Alert sequence and times (local):

• July 22 · 2:25 PM EDT – 0.75 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 3:27 PM EDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 3:32 PM EDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 3:33 PM EDT – 0.75 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 3:44 PM EDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 3:59 PM EDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 4:01 PM EDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 4:35 PM EDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only
• July 22 · 5:04 PM EDT – 0.75 inch hail – NWS warning only

Radar returned strong hail signatures during the core of the event. The storm is concluded. No active warnings remain for the Saint Francis metro as of the event close.

Damage Assessment

Hail in the three-quarter- to one-inch class commonly produces dents in vehicle body panels and can abrade asphalt shingle granules. At slightly larger diameters above one inch, expect more widespread shingle bruising, accelerated granule loss, and potential lifting of shingle edges. Vinyl siding may show pitting and scuffs in exposed elevations. Skylights, solar panels, and exposed glass are at increased risk where hail struck directly, though complete pane failure is less frequent at these sizes.

Localized impact patterns are likely where the storm core tracked through town. Field verification is required to map actual damage locations. Do not rely on the NWS warning polygon for pinpoint damage placement; warnings indicate the broader threat area rather than exact strike lines.

What Contractors Should Know

Inspect roofs for granule loss, bruised shingles, and torn or lifted tabs. Photograph all damage with time-stamped, geotagged images. Record vehicle denting and siding pitting by orientation and street address. Note any compromised seals around skylights and roof penetrations. Maintain separate photo sets for pre-repair condition and post-repair work.

Prioritize temporary protection for roofs with exposed decking. Tarp only where immediate water intrusion is likely. Provide written estimates that itemize shingle replacement, underlayment repair, flashing replacement, and any ventilation or HVAC repairs tied to hail impact. Coordinate exposure limits and repair scope with insurers and adjusters. Keep serial numbers and photographic records for mechanical equipment such as condensers and solar inverters.