St. Louis, MN Hail Storm – July 2026

St. Louis, MN experienced a concluded hail event on July 29, 2026, producing peak 1.82-inch hail during the late evening. The single-zone storm prompted an NWS warning area that included the metro.

What Happened

The storm produced severe hail across the St. Louis, MN metro in the late evening on July 29. The National Weather Service issued one warning area at 10:43 PM CDT after dual-polarization NEXRAD hail detection indicated stones near 1.79 inches. Radar returns showed concentrated hail signatures within that single warning area. No additional NWS warnings were issued for the same cell after 10:43 PM CDT and the event is listed as concluded for the zone.

Local spotter reports did not appear in the NWS alert record supplied with this page. The primary hail evidence for this page is radar-detected hail signatures observed within the NWS warning area for the St. Louis metro on July 29.

Damage Assessment

Hail of this diameter in St. Louis on July 29 is capable of denting metal surfaces, removing shingle granules, and cracking softer siding materials. Vehicles parked outdoors in the warning area are at elevated risk for panel dents and broken glass. Roof coverings with prior wear are more likely to lose granules and develop exposed substrate that can lead to leaks when storms are followed by rainfall.

Immediate, visible damage typically includes dented vehicle panels, loss of granules on asphalt shingles, and surface chipping on vinyl or aluminum trim. Secondary damage to roofing and exterior cladding becomes more likely if water intrusion is not addressed before the next rain event.

What Contractors Should Know

Inspect roofs, gutters, windows, HVAC units, and exterior cladding first in the addresses within the NWS warning area. Photograph damage with time stamps and a visible location reference. For roofing, document granule loss, fractured tabs, and punctures. For vehicles and mechanical equipment, note dents and shattered glazing. Prioritize structures with active leaks or exposed substrate for temporary tarps or coverings to prevent moisture intrusion.

Provide clients with clear triage steps: emergency tarp and temporary sealing for active leaks, photographic estimates for insurance, and scheduled follow-up for full replacement where substrate or multiple shingle tabs are compromised. Use the radar hail track as an initial guide, then confirm damage on-site before ordering materials or scheduling large crews.

Purchase the Strike Map to obtain the precise hail track and damage zone mapping for claims and repair planning.