Laramie, WY Hail Storm – August 2026

Laramie, WY experienced hail up to 2.58 inches on August 22, 2026. The storm produced ten NWS radar-detected hail alerts across the metro from early afternoon into late evening.

What Happened

The event ran from early afternoon through late evening on August 22, 2026, and is concluded. NWS issued ten hail alerts tied to radar signatures detected over the Laramie metro. Alerts were based on dual-polarization NEXRAD radar detections.

Alert sequence (local times):

• 1:49 PM MDT (19:49 UTC) – 1.32 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 4:03 PM MDT (22:03 UTC) – 1.56 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 4:40 PM MDT (22:40 UTC) – 1.35 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 4:57 PM MDT (22:57 UTC) – 1.00 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 5:14 PM MDT (23:14 UTC) – 1.31 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 5:37 PM MDT (23:37 UTC) – 1.00 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 6:13 PM MDT (00:13 UTC) – 1.86 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 7:17 PM MDT (01:17 UTC) – 0.88 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 7:25 PM MDT (01:25 UTC) – 1.50 in – dual-polarization radar detection
• 9:39 PM MDT (03:39 UTC) – 1.51 in – dual-polarization radar detection

Radar signatures increased in intensity in the late afternoon and early evening, with the strongest radar returns recorded around 6:13 PM MDT and additional elevated signatures near 9:39 PM MDT. Local spotter and post-event reports included a maximum measured hailstone of 2.58 inches.

Damage Assessment

Radar-detected hail during this event ranged from under one inch to stones exceeding two inches. Hail above 1.0 inch commonly dents vehicle body panels and damages aluminum siding. Hail at or above 1.5 inches raises the likelihood of broken skylights, punctured vinyl, and accelerated wear to composite roof shingles. Stones above two inches are sufficient to crack single-pane windows and inflict significant asphalt shingle loss where exposure and roof age are factors.

Damage exposure within Laramie is concentrated where multiple radar alerts overlapped in late afternoon to early evening. Properties with older roofing material, unsecured vehicles, and exposed glass should be prioritized for inspection. Photographs showing hail specimens alongside a measurable scale improve the clarity of repair estimates and insurance submissions.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize inspections in neighborhoods with clustered radar alerts between 4:00 PM and 9:45 PM MDT. Start with roof-system assessments for asphalt shingles, metal panels, and seal integrity. Check attic areas for water staining and interior drywall for impact points that indicate through-roof penetration. For vehicles, document dents with wide and close-up photos and note paint cracking or exposed substrate.