Custer, SD Hail Storm – July 2026

Custer, SD experienced a hail-bearing thunderstorm on July 31, 2026, producing peak hail measured at 2.64 inches. The storm moved through the Custer metro area in the late afternoon and early evening and has concluded.

What Happened

A thunderstorm produced multiple radar-detected hail signatures over Custer on July 31. The National Weather Service issued two hail-related alerts for the storm. The first alert was issued at 5:23 PM CDT and identified hail around 1.55 inches based on dual-polarization radar. The second alert was issued at 6:10 PM CDT and identified hail near 1.98 inches on radar. Local radar scans showed strong dual-polarization returns through the late afternoon into early evening. The event concluded in the Custer metro area after the 6:10 PM advisory window.

Damage Assessment

Hail reached a maximum measured diameter of 2.64 inches within the Custer area on July 31. Stones in the 1.5 to 2.5-inch range can dent metal surfaces, remove shingle granules, crack siding panels, and cause concentrated windshield or skylight breakage on exposed vehicles and structures. At the 2.64-inch peak, expect localized broken glass, significant vehicle body damage, and likely full-shingle failures on older roofing systems. Roof edge and south-facing aspects commonly show the greatest hail scarring when storms track from the southwest to the northeast, as observed during the late-afternoon storm motion.

Document physical evidence immediately. Photograph hail samples next to a ruler or coin for scale. Capture multiple angles of vehicle panels, roof eaves, vents, and gutters. Record the time and location for each photograph and note whether samples were photographed on private property or public right-of-way. Preserve any large hailstones in a sealed container when feasible for insurer inspection.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and access. Work with property owners to confirm utilities are secure before roof work. Use fall protection and avoid walking on saturated or heavily damaged shingles. Conduct a systematic roof survey from ground level first, then perform a controlled rooftop inspection if conditions allow. Focus initial inspections on roofing material integrity, HVAC and solar array impact points, skylights, gutters, and vehicle parking locations adjacent to the structure.

Prepare concise documentation for estimates. Include measured hail sizes observed, time-stamped photos, and an access log for any rooftop work. Note granular loss patterns, fracture lines in asphalt shingles, dent patterns on metal flashing, and any glass fractures. When temporary tarping is required, secure tarps to prevent further water intrusion and document tarp placement with photos and timestamps. Coordinate with insurers on scope items and retain any large hail samples for their review.

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