Kilgore, NE Hail Storm – August 2026

Kilgore, NE, August 16, 2026: A multi-zone evening storm produced hail with a maximum confirmed size of 2.69 inches. The event concluded the same night.

What Happened

NWS issued 13 alerts between 6:55 PM CDT and 11:16 PM CDT on August 16. Dual-polarization radar detected hail signatures in nine alerts. Four alerts were based on the NWS warning polygon without a corresponding radar detection.

Timeline of NWS alerts and detection method:

• 6:55 PM CDT – 1.59 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 7:33 PM CDT – 2.35 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 8:03 PM CDT – 1.98 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 8:15 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 8:41 PM CDT – 1.84 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 8:56 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 9:07 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only.
• 9:55 PM CDT – 1.70 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 9:58 PM CDT – 1.54 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.
• 10:12 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only.
• 10:40 PM CDT – 1.00 inch hail – NWS warning only.
• 10:46 PM CDT – 0.88 inch hail – NWS warning only.
• 11:16 PM CDT – 0.83 inch hail – dual-polarization radar detection.

Radar-detected sizes during the sequence ranged from about 0.83 inch to 2.35 inches. The alert pattern shows multiple storm cells traversing Kilgore in the early evening and late evening hours.

Damage Assessment

Radar detections and alert sizes indicate a mix of minor to moderate roof and vehicle exposure across Kilgore. Hail observed at or above roughly 1.5 inches in several radar returns suggests likely denting to vehicle panels and deformation of aluminum fixtures in affected neighborhoods. Where radar indicated sizes near or above 2 inches, asphalt shingle damage is likely on older roofs and on areas of rooftops with prior wear.

Smaller detections under 1.0 inch correspond with localized cosmetic damage to siding, gutters, and skylights. Expect the highest concentration of impact where the 7:33 PM and 8:03 PM radar returns were recorded, and along the corridor covered by the sequence of late-evening alerts. Field validation will be required to map precise property impacts.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize inspections in Kilgore starting with vehicle lots, commercial canopies, and residential asphalt shingle roofs reported within the 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM corridor. Use time-stamped photos and a simple measurement reference, such as a coin or ruler, when documenting hail size. Record exact addresses and GPS coordinates for each inspection. Limit ladder work during wet conditions and maintain a two-person rule for roof access.