McKenzie Bridge, OR Hail Storm – July 2026

McKenzie Bridge, OR experienced hail up to 1.64 inches on July 22, 2026 during a multi-zone severe thunderstorm that moved through in the mid-afternoon and into the early evening. The storm produced multiple NWS alerts and a radar hail signature over the community.

What Happened

The storm initiated as a radar-detected hail signature in the mid-afternoon and produced three NWS alerts across the McKenzie Bridge metro. At 3:12 PM PDT a dual-polarization radar hail detection indicated 1.41 inches. A NWS warning was issued at 3:49 PM PDT reporting 0.75-inch hail in the warning area. A second NWS warning at 5:23 PM PDT again reported 0.75-inch hail in a later cell. The sequence shows an early radar-derived peak followed by two NWS warning-only reports during late afternoon and early evening activity. The event has concluded.

Damage Assessment

Observed and detected hail ranged from roughly three-quarter inch stones to those exceeding one and a half inches. Hail near 0.75 inch commonly dents aluminum and vinyl surfaces and may crack single-pane glass on exposed structures. Stones above 1.5 inches are large enough to dent vehicle body panels, shatter skylights, and accelerate wear on asphalt shingle roofs, particularly on older or damaged coverings. Localized concentrations of larger stones are most likely where the radar hail signature and NWS warnings overlapped in the McKenzie Bridge area.

Inspectors and homeowners should expect scatter in damage severity across short distances. Roofing fasteners, gutters, and soft metals on cars will show the most consistent signs of impact. Roofing granule loss and tab deformation are the primary short-term indicators to document for claims and repair prioritization.

What Contractors Should Know

First paragraph: Prioritize inspections where the radar-detected signature at 3:12 PM PDT overlapped the 3:49 PM and 5:23 PM NWS warning areas. Start with roof-level assessments for granule loss, dented flashings, and broken skylights. Use consistent measurement notes and photographs with time-stamped close-ups of dents, punctures, and shingle tab damage. For vehicle fleets and exposed equipment, catalog dents by panel and note any broken glass. Temporary tarps and documented condition reports reduce exposure to secondary water intrusion while permanent repairs are scheduled.

Second paragraph: Coordinate with property owners and insurers before performing nonemergency repairs. Maintain safety protocols for ladder work in wet conditions and secure work zones on narrow McKenzie Bridge roads. For claims support, provide detailed roof diagrams, measured hail impressions where possible, and photo timelines tied to the reported alert sequence. Consider targeted follow-up inspections in zones where radar detection indicated larger stones but ground reports are sparse.

For precise, radar-derived hail track points and the paid damage zone view for contractor planning, consult the Strike Map.