Reserve, NM Hail Storm – July 2026

Reserve, New Mexico, July 28, 2026 – A multi-cell storm moved through Reserve on July 28, producing hail up to 2.74 inches in diameter. The event ran from mid-afternoon into early evening and is now concluded.

What Happened

The National Weather Service issued 15 consecutive alerts tied to this storm between 1:19 PM MDT and 7:09 PM MDT. Dual-polarization radar detections prompted the sequence of warnings and hail-size reports. Key alert timestamps and radar-derived hail estimates are below:

• 1:19 PM MDT – 1.25-inch hail (radar-detected)
• 1:44 PM MDT – 1.00-inch hail (radar-detected)
• 2:25 PM MDT – 1.55-inch hail (radar-detected)
• 2:33 PM MDT – 1.17-inch hail and 1.23-inch hail (two nearby radar detections)
• 3:38 PM MDT – 1.50-inch hail (radar-detected)
• 4:00 PM MDT – 1.35-inch and 1.55-inch hail (adjacent cells)
• 4:01 PM MDT – 1.00-inch hail
• 5:05 PM MDT – 1.10-inch hail
• 5:29 PM MDT – 1.09-inch hail
• 5:53 PM MDT – 1.04-inch hail
• 5:54 PM MDT – 1.74-inch hail
• 6:52 PM MDT – 1.13-inch hail
• 7:09 PM MDT – 1.22-inch hail

Radar-detected hail sizes were intermittently reported as cells intensified and merged. The alert sequence shows repeated hail signatures moving across multiple notification zones in the Reserve metro area.

Damage Assessment

Radar-derived hail sizes on July 28 include a broad band of 1.0–1.7 inches with isolated larger stones up to 2.74 inches. In Reserve, those sizes are consistent with the following observed effects on common target surfaces:

• Vehicles: panel dents and broken mirror housings are likely where vehicles were exposed outdoors; full windshield breakage is possible at the largest sizes.
• Roofing: asphalt-shingle loss of granules and bruising that shortens service life is likely for hail over one inch; localized shingle fractures and split seals become probable as sizes approach and exceed two inches.
• Glass and skylights: punctures or shattering are possible on weaker glazing and older skylights at the largest reported sizes.

Inspectors in Reserve should prioritize photographic documentation of vehicle panels, soffits, guttering, and roof coverings. Note locations and orientations of damage relative to roadways and tree cover to support claims and repair estimates.

What Contractors Should Know

First paragraph: Triage work should focus on safety hazards and preventing secondary water intrusion. Secure tarps over compromised roof areas and clear loose debris from gutters and downspouts. Use calibrated measuring tools on-site to corroborate reported hail diameters and record multiple measurements across the property. Time-stamp photos and capture a reference object in frame for scale.