Portland, MO Hail Storm – July 2026

Portland, MO experienced a multi-zone hail event on July 31, 2026, producing a peak 2.32-inch hailstone and multiple severe thunderstorm alerts across the metro. The storm moved through in the early evening and concluded after midnight.

What Happened

The storm generated 17 NWS alerts between 5:26 PM CDT and 12:34 AM CDT. The first warning issued at 5:26 PM CDT reported 1-inch hail under an NWS warning only. A radar-detected hail core was recorded at 5:45 PM CDT with a dual-polarization radar estimate of 2.18 inches in diameter. Subsequent warnings through the evening were predominantly NWS warning only, with reported hail sizes of 1.00 inch, 0.88 inch, and 0.75 inch at various times. Several later alerts recorded 0-inch entries while warnings remained active. The alert sequence shows an early evening intensification followed by intermittent weakening and re-intensification through late evening. The event concluded after 12:34 AM CDT on August 1.

Damage Assessment

Measured and reported hail during this event ranged from 0.75 inch to a peak of 2.32 inches. Hail at or above 2 inches is capable of causing roof shingle fractures, denting metal panels and vehicles, and damaging unshielded skylights. Hail near 1 inch typically produces bruising to siding, chipped paint, and denting to aluminum gutters and air-conditioning fins. The frequent 1-inch warnings across the metro indicate a broad swath of the city saw hail capable of cosmetic and functional damage to roofing and exterior equipment. Radar detection of a 2.18-inch core at 5:45 PM CDT identifies a concentrated path of larger stones where impact damage is most likely to be concentrated. No spotter-verified damage reports are included in the alert sequence provided here.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a documented exterior survey focused on roofing, gutters, HVAC fins, solar panels, and vehicle access areas. Photograph damage with a reference scale and timestamped images. Note locations relative to streets and known addresses. For roofs, record missing granules, fractured tabs, and punctures. For metal and painted surfaces, document dents and scraped coatings. Retain original photos before any temporary repairs.

Prioritize safety and permit requirements before repair work. Temporary tarps should be installed where water entry is present. Replace compromised shingles and damaged flashing first to prevent interior water damage. Inspect and test rooftop mechanical equipment and condensers for bent fins and refrigerant leaks. Provide concise line-item estimates tied to observed damage and include the radar-detected 5:45 PM CDT 2.18-inch core in your condition notes for insurer and client records.

Paid customers can access the Strike Map for the precise hail track and damage zone.