Douglas, WY Hail Storm – July 2026

Douglas, WY experienced a hail-producing thunderstorm on July 28, 2026, with peak hail to 2.76 inches and a multi-alert NWS sequence.

What Happened

A hail-producing cell moved across the Douglas metro in the late evening of July 28. The National Weather Service issued three related alerts for the storm. At 9:07 PM MDT the radar indicated hail to 1.38 inches. At 9:22 PM MDT an NWS warning was posted with a 1.00-inch hail report in the warning only. At 9:40 PM MDT dual-polarization radar detected hail to 2.46 inches. The sequence shows repeated hail detections from NEXRAD dual-polarization radar mixed with a separate NWS warning-only report. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Radar-detected stones in the 1.0 to 1.5 inch range typically produce widespread vehicle dents, broken small glass items, and damaged outdoor equipment. In Douglas, these sizes were detected early in the sequence and are likely where most light-to-moderate exterior damage occurred. Radar returns near 2.46 inches indicate a zone capable of significant roofing and siding damage. Stones above two inches can crack asphalt shingles, dent metal roofing, and shatter skylights. Local reports and follow-up inspections in the metro area should prioritize roofs, vehicles, and exposed mechanical equipment in neighborhoods downrange of the stronger radar returns.

Document any visible hail impact with photos that include a measurable scale. Note the exact address, time, and direction from the nearest intersection for each photo. Collect samples of damaged roofing material and note the layer beneath the visible shingles. Those items support contractor estimates and insurance submissions.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a rapid, safety-focused triage. Verify structural safety before walking roofs. Conduct an initial exterior survey from the ground and from safe elevated positions. Prioritize tarping for open roofs and covering or moving damaged HVAC units and exposed electrical equipment. Record GPS coordinates and clear photos of hail dents on vehicles, HVAC units, and roofing. Use a consistent photo scale when possible, such as placing a ruler or a known-size reference in the frame.

Estimate replacement needs separately from temporary repairs. Provide a written scope that separates emergency fixes from full repairs or replacements. Note hail size observations tied to specific addresses and include any radar-detected return noted in the storm timeline section when filing estimates. Retain samples of damaged materials for warranty and insurance review. Coordinate with adjusters using precise location notes and photo timestamps to reduce back-and-forth inspections.

See the Strike Map for precise hail track and damage zone data.