Birmingham, AL Hail Storm – August 2026

Birmingham, Alabama, experienced a concluded hail-producing thunderstorm on August 9, 2026, producing a peak 2.03-inch hailstone and multiple NWS severe thunderstorm warnings. The event moved through the metro in late afternoon and early evening and was reported as a multi-zone hail event.

What Happened

The storm moved into the Birmingham metro area in the late afternoon and persisted into the early evening. The National Weather Service issued three severe thunderstorm warnings tied to the event. The first warning began at 3:37 PM CDT and indicated potential for 0.75-inch hail; it was labeled NWS warning only. A second warning began at 4:24 PM CDT and indicated potential for 1.00-inch hail; it was labeled NWS warning only. A third warning began at 7:00 PM CDT and again indicated 0.75-inch hail potential; it was labeled NWS warning only. The event is concluded. Assessments of the peak hailstone size were recorded after the warnings ended.

Damage Assessment

Stones this large can break or significantly bruise asphalt shingles and composite roofing materials where impact angles are steep. Metal roofing and aluminum trim are susceptible to dents and deformation. Parked vehicles in uncovered lots in central and outlying Birmingham neighborhoods are likely to show hail dings and broken glass on exposed surfaces. Skylights and single-pane windows on south- and west-facing elevations should be inspected for shattered or cracked glass.

Surface-level vegetation and soft roofing materials can show defoliation and puncture marks consistent with the observed hail size. Gutters, solar panels, and HVAC condenser fins in exposed locations are prone to impact damage and should be checked for bending, perforations, and misalignment. Document visible damage with dated, geotagged photos and note the specific neighborhood or intersection where each photo was taken.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a rapid exterior survey of roofing, siding, gutters, HVAC units, and vehicles in the affected neighborhoods. Prioritize properties on exposed ridgelines and those with west- and south-facing exposures that received the late-afternoon hail pulses. Use a minimum 1:1 photographic scale reference in roof and vehicle photos. Record local conditions and the time of inspection. Temporary tarping may be necessary for properties with open penetrations or broken glazing.

Prepare concise condition reports for clients and insurers. Include size context, location, and time-stamped imagery. Avoid permanent repairs before documentation and insurer direction. Schedule detailed roof inspections with fall protection and a two-person crew for safety. For mechanical and glazing repairs, check warranty implications before replacement of panels or units.

For precise radar-derived hail track points and the paid damage zone, consult the Strike Map for this event.