Akron, CO Hail Storm – August 2026

Akron, CO experienced a severe hail-producing thunderstorm on August 18, 2026, producing up to 2.89 in hail. The event concluded in the early hours of August 19.

What Happened

A multi-cell thunderstorm moved through the Akron metro late evening and into early morning. Five NWS alerts were issued for the event. Timeline and detection type:

• Aug 18 · 10:51 PM MDT (04:51 UTC) – 1.00 in hail reported in an NWS warning area (NWS warning only).
• Aug 18 · 11:41 PM MDT (05:41 UTC) – 1.14 in hail detected by dual-polarization radar.
• Aug 19 · 12:14 AM MDT (06:14 UTC) – 2.54 in hail detected by dual-polarization radar.
• Aug 19 · 12:42 AM MDT (06:42 UTC) – 1.50 in hail detected by dual-polarization radar.
• Aug 19 · 12:57 AM MDT (06:57 UTC) – 1.05 in hail detected by dual-polarization radar.

NEXRAD dual-polarization radar recorded core intensity near midnight before the storm weakened after 12:57 AM. The first alert was an NWS warning-only notification; subsequent alerts were radar-detected hail cores across the Akron area.

Damage Assessment

Radar and alert data show hail cores producing stones roughly 1.0 in to over 2.5 in along the storm track through Akron and the immediate outskirts. Hail around 1.0–1.25 in commonly produces paint chips to vehicles, broken plant material, and minor siding abrasion. Hail near 1.5 in frequently dents metal panels, skylights, and vehicle roofs. Hail larger than 2.5 in can crack or dislodge asphalt shingles, shatter glass, and cause substantial denting to vehicles and outdoor equipment.

Damage will concentrate where radar cores tracked over populated blocks and transportation corridors. Field inspections should prioritize roofs, exposed vehicles, solar arrays, and glazing on structures located beneath the radar-detected cores.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a safety-focused triage. Confirm utilities are secure before accessing roofs. Photograph all suspected impact points with a dated reference and a measuring scale. Inspect attic spaces for new leaks and roof decking for bruising beneath shingles. Log vehicle damage with close-up and contextual photos showing position relative to the property.

For repairs, prioritize weatherproofing and temporary covers to prevent interior water intrusion. Record serial numbers and model information for damaged mechanical equipment and solar panels. Prepare scope documents that reference radar-detected impact bands and noted inspection locations. Use those documents to coordinate with adjusters and to schedule permanent repairs.

Use the Strike Map to view the precise hail track and radar-derived impact points for this event.