Burlington, CO Hail Storm – July 2026

Burlington, Colorado experienced a multi-zone severe hail event on July 27, 2026, producing stones up to 3.69 inches in diameter and triggering eight National Weather Service alerts across the metro area.

What Happened

Storm activity developed mid-afternoon and persisted into the early evening, crossing the Burlington metro in multiple pulses. NWS alerts and radar detections indicate repeated hail-producing cores moved through the same general corridor.

Alert sequence (local times):

• July 27 · 1:41 PM MDT – 1.00" hail – NWS warning only
• July 27 · 2:39 PM MDT – 1.21" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• July 27 · 2:44 PM MDT – 1.57" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• July 27 · 3:29 PM MDT – 1.00" hail – NWS warning only
• July 27 · 5:59 PM MDT – 1.21" hail – dual-polarization radar detection
• July 27 · 7:44 PM MDT – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• July 27 · 8:28 PM MDT – 0.75" hail – NWS warning only
• July 27 · 11:22 PM MDT – 1.99" hail – dual-polarization radar detection

Dual-polarization radar flagged multiple hail cores during the afternoon and late evening pulses. Several alerts were NWS warning only, indicating observed or imminent severe thunderstorm conditions that prompted public warnings without immediate radar hail confirmation in those polygons. The event is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Observed hail sizes across the Burlington track ranged from smaller marble-size stones to large, golf-ball-plus stones in localized cores. Stones at or above roughly 1.25 inches routinely cause denting to metal surfaces and composite shingle damage. Hail approaching 2 inches increases the likelihood of broken glass, siding damage, and more extensive shingle loss.

Where the largest stones were reported along the radar-detected track, expect concentrated roof damage, vehicle panel and glass damage, and potential harm to exposed agricultural equipment. Inspect properties that were under NWS warning areas and along the radar-detected hail track first, prioritizing visible punctures, missing shingle granules, and cracked glazing for immediate documentation.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a rapid exterior assessment for safety hazards and visible impact points. Photograph scale-referenced damage from ground level and, where safe, from elevated positions. Log exact addresses, time of inspection, and proximity to the NWS warning areas and radar-detected track. Focus initial repairs on securing openings, removing loose debris, and preventing water intrusion; temporary tarping of compromised roofs reduces secondary water damage while permanent repairs are scheduled.

Estimate materials for full replacements when you find multiple areas of shingle loss or punctures consistent with larger hail. Coordinate with property owners and adjust scopes for both cosmetic and structural damage, including siding, skylights, and vehicle panels. Prioritize claims with clear photographic evidence tied to the NWS warning times and radar detections to streamline documentation for insurance.