St. David, AZ Hail Storm – August 2026

St. David, AZ experienced a concluded hail-producing storm on August 21, 2026, with peak hail reaching 1.65 inches. The afternoon event produced a sequence of NWS warnings and radar-detected hail tracks across the St. David metro.

What Happened

The storm moved through the St. David metro during the afternoon of August 21, 2026. Five NWS alerts were issued as the cell evolved and re-triggered warnings and radar detections:

• Aug 21 · 12:25 PM MST (19:25 UTC) – 1" hail – NWS warning only
• Aug 21 · 1:30 PM MST (20:30 UTC) – 1" hail – NWS warning only
• Aug 21 · 1:34 PM MST (20:34 UTC) – 1" hail – dual-polarization radar (NEXRAD) detected hail
• Aug 21 · 2:27 PM MST (21:27 UTC) – 1" hail – dual-polarization radar (NEXRAD) detected hail
• Aug 21 · 4:16 PM MST (23:16 UTC) – 1" hail – NWS warning only

NWS warnings framed the broader hazard footprint across the metro. Dual-polarization NEXRAD scans recorded discrete hail tracks during the early and mid-afternoon returns. The event is now listed as concluded.

Damage Assessment

Hail of this diameter has the capacity to dent vehicle bodywork and leave impact marks on metal and vinyl surfaces in neighborhoods inside the NWS warning area around St. David. Asphalt shingle roofs in exposed, windward positions are at increased risk of bruising and granule loss. Ground-level glazing such as patio doors and skylights may show cracking where impact was concentrated along the radar-detected paths.

Available public alerts and radar detections did not include spotter-verified damage reports tied to specific addresses. Field inspections within the warning polygons should therefore confirm whether observed impacts are storm-related or pre-existing. Prioritize photographic documentation and measurable samples during the first site visit to establish a condition baseline for each property in the warning area.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin operations with a rapid triage across properties inside the NWS warning area. Conduct exterior-only assessments where safety or access is limited. Capture time-stamped, scaled photographs of vehicles, roof fields, gutters, HVAC units, and glass. Record orientation and exposure for each observation. If hail samples are recoverable, measure multiple intact stones and retain specimens for client and insurer review.

For roofing contractors, inspect for impact bruises, ridge and hip granule loss, lifted tabs, and compromised flashing. Check solar panels, fascia, and external HVAC housings for dents that can affect warranties or performance. Provide clear, itemized estimates and include sample measurements and photos in every report. Coordinate early with adjusters to avoid duplicated work in the mapped NWS warning area.