Tularosa, NM Hail Storm – August 2026

Tularosa, NM – August 7, 2026. A multi-zone hail-producing storm is tracking through the Tularosa metro and surrounding areas, producing a peak radar-detected hail size of 2.33 inches. The storm is active and continuing to produce hail and thunderstorm activity.

What Happened

The storm began producing radar-detected hail in the late afternoon and progressed into the early evening. The NWS issued four radar-based alerts tied to the same storm cell while the system moved through the area. Alerts were issued at 4:23 PM MDT (22:23 UTC) for 1.34-inch hail, 4:47 PM MDT (22:47 UTC) for 1.32-inch hail, 5:41 PM MDT (23:41 UTC) for 1.57-inch hail, and 6:28 PM MDT (00:28 UTC) for 1.41-inch hail. Dual-polarization radar data indicated growing hail cores before a peak radar-derived return registered 2.33 inches.

NWS warning areas were in effect for portions of the Tularosa metro during the alert sequence. Observations remain radar-derived; field reports are pending. The storm is active and conditions may still be developing across eastern sections of the metro and nearby rural roads.

Damage Assessment

Radar-derived hail sizes observed during this event are consistent with large, roof-damaging stones across the urban and suburban footprint of Tularosa. Hail approaching and exceeding 2 inches typically produces cosmetic and functional damage to asphalt shingle roofs, including broken granules, bruising, and accelerated wear in older roof systems. Residential vehicles parked outdoors in central Tularosa can show denting to panels and cracked glass when struck by stones of this size.

Commercial assets at elevated exposure — including rooftop HVAC units, skylights, and ground-mounted solar panels — are at risk of scoring and impact damage where the storm tracks directly overhead. Scattered downbursts and localized wind gusts observed on radar may exacerbate damage by driving stones into siding and fenestration. Field verification across specific parcels in the municipal area will determine actual loss patterns and claim concentrations.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize documented exterior inspections in Tularosa neighborhoods along the storm track. Start with photographic surveys of roofing, gutters, skylights, HVAC condensers, and vehicles. Note exact times and GPS coordinates for each photo. Temporary tarping and securement should follow local building code and insurance guidance. Avoid roof work on actively wet or wind-driven sites. Establish a safe access plan for multiunit and commercial rooftops before mobilizing crews.

Estimate inspection and repair workloads using the reported hail sizes and the NWS warning area for initial routing. Prepare common replacement parts for asphalt shingle repair, metal flashing, and standard skylight patches. Coordinate with insurance adjusters and document pre- and post-repair conditions. Use the paid Strike Map to obtain the precise hail track and refine contractor routing and claim prioritization.