Ellis Grove, IL Hail Storm – August 2026

Ellis Grove, IL recorded hail on August 12, 2026, with peak stones measuring 2.44 inches during a multi-zone storm. The event produced a sequence of radar-detected returns and NWS warning-only alerts across late afternoon into evening.

What Happened

The storm initiated in mid-afternoon and triggered eight NWS alerts between 3:58 PM CDT and 9:04 PM CDT. A dual-polarization radar return at 3:58 PM CDT detected 1.43-inch hail on the western fringe of the warning area. NWS warning-only alerts followed at 4:44 PM CDT and 4:47 PM CDT, both reporting 1.00-inch hail in issued warnings. At 5:16 PM CDT a warning listed 1.00-inch hail. Radar again detected larger stones at 6:43 PM CDT with a 1.57-inch return. A 7:03 PM CDT warning recorded 0.00-inch as the published hail size. At 7:13 PM CDT radar-detected returns measured 1.28 inches. The final NWS warning at 9:04 PM CDT listed 0.75-inch hail.

Radar-detected returns and NWS warning-only reports overlapped in time and space. The sequence shows intermittent radar verification interspersed with warning-only alerts. The storm concluded prior to midnight local time.

Damage Assessment

The alert sequence includes radar-detected returns above 1.25 inches and multiple 1.00-inch NWS warnings. Those radar returns are sized large enough to dent vehicle body panels and damage older asphalt roofing. Areas under confirmed radar returns at 3:58 PM CDT, 6:43 PM CDT, and 7:13 PM CDT had the greatest potential for impact.

No spotter-verified damage reports are included in the alert sequence for this aggregated event. NWS warning-only entries indicate the warning polygon covered a broader area than the radar-detected hail swath. Inspectors should prioritize locations along the radar-detected track where returns exceeded 1.25 inches, then sample adjoining properties inside the NWS warning area.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a visual roof inspection and high-resolution photos before any repairs. Focus first on vehicle panels, skylights, and exposed HVAC condenser fins in properties located along the radar-detected returns recorded during the event. Record exact locations, time-stamped photos, and measured hail impressions. Include a simple ruler or coin in photos for scale.

For roofing, check granule loss, split or curled shingles, and punctures near vents and flashings. Tarping is a short-term remedy for open penetrations. For fleet or multiple-vehicle assessments, document VINs and concentrated damage patterns to support batch claims. Prioritize insured properties inside the radar hail swath and then expand sampling within the broader NWS warning area.

Paid customers can access the Strike Map to view the precise hail track and the event damage zone.