Grouse Creek, UT Hail Storm – August 2026

Grouse Creek, UT experienced hail on August 23, 2026, producing a peak stone of 1.92 inches. The event produced multiple radar-detected hail alerts and a sequence of NWS warnings from mid-afternoon into the evening.

What Happened

The event began in the mid-afternoon with the first radar-detected hail alert at 2:48 PM MDT and continued through the early evening. The alert sequence included seven NWS alerts over roughly six hours. Key detections and warnings:

• 2:48 PM MDT – 1.14-inch hail reported by dual-polarization radar.
• 3:04 PM MDT – 1.50-inch hail reported by dual-polarization radar.
• 6:05 PM MDT – 1.32-inch hail reported by dual-polarization radar.
• 6:44 PM MDT – 1.33-inch hail reported by dual-polarization radar.
• 8:28 PM MDT – 0.75-inch hail reported as NWS warning only.
• 8:51 PM MDT – 0.75-inch hail reported as NWS warning only.
• 9:00 PM MDT – 1.00-inch hail reported as NWS warning only.

Dual-polarization radar provided direct hail detections in the mid- and late-afternoon alerts. Later evening notifications were issued as NWS warnings without accompanying radar diameter estimates. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Observed hail sizes ranged from roughly 0.75 inch to 1.92 inches. Stones near 0.75 inch typically produce cosmetic dents to vehicle body panels and minor bruising to vegetation. Hail at or above 1.00 inch increases the likelihood of cracked skylights, dented metal trim, and broken irrigation and exposed piping in open fields.

Stones approaching 2.0 inches present a higher risk to roofing materials. Asphalt shingle impact may result in granular loss, fractured tabs, and compromised waterproofing at penetrations. Solar panels can sustain cracked glass or broken cells when struck by hail in the 1.5–2.0 inch range. Reported sizes in this event warrant targeted roof and vehicle inspections in the storm path.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize roof assessments for properties under the radar-detected hail track. Inspect high-exposure elements first: ridge caps, hips, plumbing stacks, vents, skylights, and field-mounted solar arrays. Photograph damage with scale and GPS when possible. Record the inspection time and note hail sizes observed on the surface. Check attics for water stains and soft decking that indicate through-penetration.

For vehicles and exterior equipment, document dent patterns and check HVAC condenser fins for bent coils. Apply temporary protections such as tarps only after full photographic documentation for insurance purposes. Coordinate with property owners on insurance reporting and provide written estimates that separate temporary stabilization from permanent repairs. Use fall protection during elevated work and follow local permitting for roof replacements.