Minto, ND Hail Storm – August 2026

Minto, North Dakota experienced hail on August 3, 2026, with peak stones measuring 1.65 inches in diameter. The event concluded after a series of early-morning alerts and a brief NWS warning area.

What Happened

Three NWS alerts affected the Minto warning area during the early morning of August 3. At 5:44 AM CDT (10:44 UTC) dual-polarization radar detected 1.25-inch hail moving across the northwest side of town. At 5:47 AM CDT (10:47 UTC) dual-polarization radar detected larger hail, reporting 1.58-inch stones along a similar track. A later alert at 6:18 AM CDT (11:18 UTC) was issued as an NWS warning only and covered portions of the original warning area with a reported 1.25-inch hail threat.

Radar-detected returns drove the initial alerts. The later 6:18 AM advisory was issued by the NWS without a concurrent radar size escalation. The sequence produced a short, concentrated hail track through Minto and adjacent rural addresses in the morning hours. The storm is no longer active.

Damage Assessment

Stones of that diameter can cause denting to unprotected metal, impact scarring to vehicles, and surface abrasion to composite roofing and vinyl siding. In Minto and the surrounding warning area, first-order damage is most likely on south- and west-facing exposures and on parked vehicles left in the open during the early-morning track. Agricultural fields along the detected hail path may show foliar shredding and early-stage head bruising where impacts were concentrated.

Inspectors should prioritize obvious roofing granule loss, visible dents on vehicle bodywork, shattered or punctured skylights, and concentrated abrasion on HVAC units and exposed equipment. Record locations by address and note whether impacts fall inside the NWS warning area or along the radar-detected track through town.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a safety-first assessment. Verify power is isolated before accessing rooflines and use fall protection on slopes steeper than 4:12. Photograph damage with a dated reference object and capture oblique roof views to show granule loss and shingle bruising. Measure hail-related dents on metal and vinyl with a caliper or ruler and log GPS coordinates tied to the homeowner address. If temporary cover is required, document the condition that necessitated the tarp and the tarp placement.

For scope and estimating, expect concentrated claim activity along the radar-detected track through Minto. Prioritize full-system inspections for composite roofs showing granule loss or granule displacement at eaves. Check gutters, soffits, and exposed HVAC condenser fins for impact damage. Coordinate with adjusters on visible versus latent damage; include close-up photos and a line-item list of replacement needs. Stage crews and materials outside the NWS warning area and confirm permit and disposal requirements with local authorities before work begins.