Centennial, CO Hail Storm – August 2026

Centennial, Colorado, saw a hail event on August 13, 2026, producing stones up to 2.85 inches and prompting multiple NWS alerts in the late afternoon and early evening.

What Happened

The storm developed in late afternoon and produced a sequence of seven NWS alerts between 3:58 PM MDT and 7:03 PM MDT. Dual-polarization radar detected hail on six of those alerts; one alert was issued as an NWS warning only. The alert timeline and reported hail sizes were:

• 3:58 PM MDT — 1.50 inch hail — dual-polarization radar detection
• 4:27 PM MDT — 1.86 inch hail — dual-polarization radar detection
• 5:14 PM MDT — 1.50 inch hail — dual-polarization radar detection
• 5:41 PM MDT — 2.29 inch hail — dual-polarization radar detection
• 6:17 PM MDT — 1.91 inch hail — dual-polarization radar detection
• 6:39 PM MDT — 2.00 inch hail — NWS warning only
• 7:03 PM MDT — 1.04 inch hail — dual-polarization radar detection

Radar returns show a concentrated hail-bearing cell that translated across Centennial in the late-afternoon to early-evening window. The event is concluded. Field and radar analyses mapped localized swaths with elevated hail intensity within the broader NWS warning area.

Damage Assessment

Hail in the roughly 1.0 to 2.5-inch range commonly produces vehicle panel dents, windshield pitting, and fractured asphalt shingles. Larger stones in this event exceeded the 2-inch roof-damage threshold in localized swaths. Expect the following, based on observed sizes and timing in Centennial:

• Vehicles: multiple panel dents, chipped paint, and potential windshield or sunroof cracks on vehicles exposed during peak times. Parked cars in driveways and streets were at highest risk.
• Roofing: loss of asphalt shingle granules, bruised or torn shingles, and compromised flashing for unprotected roofs. Roof systems older than 10 years are at greater risk of immediate leaks.
• Glazing and soft materials: skylights, soft vinyl siding, and exposed HVAC condenser fins are vulnerable to punctures and dents.

Document visible damage with dated photos and a measurable reference scale. Note the local alert timestamps when creating inspection records. Tie observations to specific addresses inside the NWS warning area when preparing estimates or claims.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and triage. Confirm roof integrity from the ground before ladder work. Use two-person teams for steep slopes and follow standard fall-protection practice. For initial visits, photograph all facets of damage, include a measuring reference next to hail impressions, and record the relevant alert times from 3:58 PM MDT to 7:03 PM MDT for report context.