Martin, SC Hail Storm – August 2026

Martin, SC experienced a multi-zone hail event on August 1, 2026, producing up to 1.84-inch hail in the late afternoon. The storm has concluded.

What Happened

The event moved through Martin in the late afternoon and early evening on August 1. At 4:42 PM EDT, the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning covering the warning area that included Martin and cited potential 0.75-inch hail. The warning remained in effect as the storm tracked eastward. At 5:47 PM EDT, dual-polarization NEXRAD hail detection indicated a larger hail core with stones measured by radar at 1.84 inches along the later swath through portions of the metro Martin area. The page aggregates multiple warning-area observations into a single concluded, multi-zone report.

Damage Assessment

Hail during this event ranged from roughly three-quarter inch to near two inches. Vehicles parked outdoors in neighborhoods and commercial lots inside the NWS warning area are at risk for denting and cracked glass where hail impacted directly. Asphalt shingle roofs, especially those older than 10 years or recently weathered, are likely to show bruising, granule loss, and localized shingle fracture along the radar-detected hail track. Vinyl siding and unprotected skylights can show punctures or surface pitting at the larger sizes detected by radar.

Properties directly under the later radar-detected core should be prioritized for inspection. Exterior soft materials such as HVAC fins, uncovered pool equipment, and outdoor furniture carry a high risk of cosmetic and functional damage when struck by near-2-inch hail. Interior water intrusion is possible where roof penetrations or previously compromised edges existed before the storm.

What Contractors Should Know

Schedule roof and exterior inspections within 48 to 72 hours for properties inside the NWS warning area and along the radar-detected hail track. Document damage with time-stamped photos and side-by-side shots showing full eave-to-ridge views. Note approximate hail sizes and exact locations for each photo. Inspect HVAC condensers for fin damage and test system operation before recommending replacement.

Use temporary protection where needed and safe to do so. Secure loose tarps and cover exposed equipment to limit further weather exposure. Provide clear, dated repair estimates and keep owner-signed access and authorization forms on file. Coordinate with insurers using the documented inspection photos and the exact alert times issued by the NWS. For precise hail track data, purchase the paid Strike Map for Martin, SC.