San Carlos, AZ Hail Storm – July 2026

San Carlos, Arizona experienced a multi-zone hailstorm on July 23, 2026, producing peak stones of 1.41 inches in diameter late afternoon into early evening. The event concluded after a two-stage alert sequence that covered multiple local sectors.

What Happened

The storm produced a series of radar-detected hail signatures and an NWS warning area. Dual-polarization radar detected 1.34-inch hail at 5:29 PM MST (00:29 UTC) on July 23. A later NWS warning at 7:59 PM MST (02:59 UTC) reported 1.00-inch hail in the broader warning area. The two alerts form the multi-zone aggregate on this page. Storm motion was from the northwest toward the southeast through late afternoon into early evening. The event is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Reported hail sizes span roughly 1.0 to 1.41 inches across affected zones. Stones at the upper end of that range are approximately 36 mm in diameter. At that size, expect localized damage to asphalt shingles, dents to unpainted and painted sheet metal, and cosmetic denting on parked vehicles. Roof granule loss on older composite shingles is likely where hail was most intense. Solar glass and skylights are at elevated risk where impacts were concentrated.

Smaller 1.0-inch stones are more likely to cause surface-level damage. Paint scuffs and small dents on aluminum-clad fixtures and vehicle bodies are common at this size. Window breakage is uncommon for 1.0–1.4-inch hail absent concentrated, repeated strikes or pre-existing weakness in glazing.

Field observations and follow-up inspections should reference the local warning area for broad coverage and the paid Strike Map for precise hail track and impact concentration.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize exterior roof inspections in the parts of San Carlos intersecting the radar-detected hail swath and the NWS warning area. Photograph damage with a measurable reference and note orientation of dents relative to storm motion. Check asphalt shingles for granule loss and exposed mat, inspect metal flashings and guttering for dents, and examine solar arrays and skylights for glass or frame damage. Log VINs and vehicle locations if performing a fleet or multi-vehicle assessment.

Perform temporary mitigations where necessary to prevent water intrusion. Tarping, securing loose flashing, and arranging expedited glass replacement on solar panels are standard initial actions. Prepare concise repair estimates that separate cosmetic repairs from structural repairs and include photos tied to coordinates or addresses. Coordinate with property owners and insurers before commencing major repairs.

Paid Strike Map subscribers can access the precise hail track and damage zone mapping for this event.