Raton, NM Hail Storm – August 2026

Raton, New Mexico experienced radar-detected hail on August 1, 2026, with a peak size of 1.99 inches. The multi-zone storm concluded in the early afternoon after a sequence of three NWS alerts.

What Happened

A series of convective cells produced radar-derived hail reports across the Raton metro on August 1. NWS alerts were issued at 1:34 PM MDT, 1:40 PM MDT, and 2:11 PM MDT. The first alert identified radar-indicated hail near 1.69 inches. The second alert identified radar-indicated hail near 1.12 inches. The third alert recorded the largest radar-detected signature at 1.99 inches. All three NWS alerts were based on dual-polarization NEXRAD hail detection and defined the broad NWS warning area for responders. This page aggregates those alert polygons into a single multi-zone storm report. The event status is concluded.

Damage Assessment

The dataset for this event is radar-detected; spotter-verified damage reports were not included in the alert set. Radar-only detection establishes where hail signatures exceeded reporting thresholds, but does not by itself confirm property loss. Operators in the Raton area should assume potential impacts where radar signatures intersect populated and exposed sites.

Hail approaching 2 inches typically produces denting to vehicle body panels, broken or cracked skylights and single-pane glass, and localized loss or tearing of asphalt shingle surfacing. Exposed solar panels and agricultural covers can show punctures or fracture patterns. Gutters, soft metal trim, and unreinforced siding are vulnerable to concentrated impacts. Small outbuildings and greenhouse glazing are at elevated risk in open, rural lots surrounding Raton.

If on-site observations or third-party photos show concentrated damage aligned with the NWS warning area, those ground-truth signals upgrade the event from radar-detected to spotter-verified in affected addresses.

What Contractors Should Know

Field teams should prioritize safety and rapid documentation. Start with a perimeter survey from public access roads to map likely impact trends before property entry. Photograph vehicles, roof fields, gutters, skylights, and solar arrays with scale references and timestamps. Note whether damage is isolated or widespread across adjoining properties. Retain original metadata for photos and GPS-tag inspection notes to support claims and triage decisions.

For restoration contractors and adjusters, plan inspections by clusters defined by the warning area polygons to reduce travel time and exposure. Prepare temporary protection materials for compromised roofing and glazing to prevent water intrusion. Obtain owner authorization before performing emergency tarps. Coordinate with municipal permitting offices in Raton when work may affect public right-of-way or require disposal of roofing materials.