Spring Creek, NV Hail Storm – August 2026

Spring Creek, NV experienced a multi-zone hail event on August 13, 2026, producing stones up to 2.95 inches and triggering a series of NWS alerts. The storm moved through mid-day into the late afternoon and has concluded.

What Happened

The event generated 10 NWS alerts spanning 11:58 AM PDT to 5:07 PM PDT. Alerts combined dual-polarization radar detections and NWS warning-only notices. Key detections included radar-detected hail at 1.00 inch at 11:58 AM PDT, 1.33 inches at 1:43 PM PDT, and a cluster of larger radar returns in late afternoon, including 2.00 inches at 4:32 PM PDT and 2.74 inches at 4:33 PM PDT. NWS warning-only alerts noted 1.00 inch at 2:20 PM PDT and 0.75 inch at 3:47 PM PDT.

Radar-derived reports carried the strongest evidence for large stones. Dual-polarization radar (NEXRAD) flagged multiple high-intensity returns in the late afternoon window. The NWS warning area covered a broader polygon over Spring Creek during the event. The storm sequence shows a midday cycle of small-to-moderate hail followed by a late-afternoon intensification that produced the largest radar-detected returns.

Damage Assessment

Alerts recorded hail sizes ranging from 0.75 to 2.95 inches across Spring Creek. Stones above 2.0 inches are capable of fracturing asphalt shingles, damaging roof flashings, cracking solar panels, and leaving penetrations in soft metals. Stones between 1.0 and 2.0 inches commonly dent vehicle body panels, crack windshield trim, and cause localized window damage. Sub-inch hail reported earlier in the day is consistent with cosmetic vehicle dings and scuffed siding.

Properties located inside the radar-detected hail swath and inside the NWS warning area should be prioritized for inspection. Roof systems with older or marginal shingles, exposed solar arrays, and outdoor HVAC equipment are most likely to show immediate, repairable damage. Document visible failures such as broken shingles, shattered panels, dented gutters, and punctured screens at time of inspection.

What Contractors Should Know

Inspectations should begin with a rapid triage of addresses within the radar-detected hail swath and the NWS warning area. Use measured photos and time-stamped notes. Start with roofs that registered radar returns above 2.0 inches, then expand to addresses that received smaller returns. Look for fractured or bruised asphalt shingles, split flashings, and concentrated denting on vehicle clusters. Record pre-loss condition where available and label photos by street address and inspection time.

For repairs, secure temporary tarps for roofs with open penetrations and cover exposed HVAC equipment to prevent secondary water damage. Coordinate with carriers and property owners before ordering long-lead items such as solar replacement panels. Group nearby jobs when possible to reduce mobilization time. Maintain an auditable file of measurements, photos, and client sign-offs to support claims and warranty work.