Raton, NM Hail Storm – July 2026

Raton, New Mexico experienced a short-lived hail-producing thunderstorm on July 29, 2026, with a peak hail size measured at 1.55 inches. The event produced a single NWS severe thunderstorm alert based on dual-polarization radar detection in the late afternoon and is now concluded.

What Happened

A convective cell moved over Raton in the late afternoon of July 29, 2026. The National Weather Service issued one severe thunderstorm warning at 5:55 PM MDT for hail indicated by dual-polarization radar. Radar-derived hail detection within the warning showed a maximum radar-estimated hail size of 1.34 inches at the time of the alert. Field and post-event measurement recorded a maximum hailstone size of 1.55 inches. The storm was short duration and localized to the Raton metro area. No additional warnings were issued for the same cell after the 5:55 PM MDT alert. The event is classified as concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail reaching 1.55 inches in diameter can produce direct damage to exposed surfaces. Expected effects include denting and paint damage to unshielded passenger vehicles, bruising and granular loss on asphalt shingles that are already aged, and denting of soft metals such as aluminum gutters and HVAC unit housings. Skylights and single-pane glass are at elevated risk for cracking where hail impacts are concentrated.

Because no broad network of ground reports accompanied the radar alert, observed damage patterns will vary by property exposure and construction. Inspect roof coverings, vehicle body panels, exterior mechanical equipment, and siding for concentrated impact marks. Photograph any damage with a measuring reference and record exact locations before any temporary repairs.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize rapid exterior inspections for properties within the NWS warning area issued at 5:55 PM MDT. Start with roof systems, then vehicles, then exposed mechanical equipment such as condensers and air handlers. Use fall protection on roofs and verify ladder footing on hail-slick surfaces. Document damage with time-stamped, geotagged photos and include a scale reference in each image. Note shingle type, roof age, and visible granular loss. For vehicle claims, capture overall vehicle photos and close-ups of dents with a ruler or coin for scale.

Temporary mitigation should focus on preventing water intrusion. Apply tarps only where secure anchoring avoids further roofing damage. Avoid cutting into wet roofing or siding unless necessary to prevent immediate water entry. Provide clear, dated estimates for permanent repair scopes and separate emergency work from full replacement to maintain transparent records for insurers and property owners.

A Strike Map is available to paid subscribers for the precise radar-derived hail track across Raton and exact impact locations.