Whitewater, CO Hail Storm – August 2026

Whitewater, CO experienced an early evening storm on August 30, 2026, producing a compact radar-detected hail track with peak hail to 1.18 inches. The event concluded the same evening after a short sequence of NWS alerts and radar detections.

What Happened

Storm cells moved across the Whitewater metro in the late afternoon into early evening. NWS and radar products issued three sequential alerts for the aggregate storm. At 5:53 PM MDT (23:53 UTC) dual-polarization NEXRAD indicated 1.00-inch hail. At 6:15 PM MDT (00:15 UTC) the NWS issued a warning noting 0.88-inch hail within the warning area. At 6:44 PM MDT (00:44 UTC) dual-polarization NEXRAD again detected larger hail, indicating a peak size of 1.18 inches along the radar-derived track. The alert sequence shows initial radar detection, an NWS warning-only report, and a later radar-detected increase in hail size. The storm is closed and no active warnings remain in the area.

Damage Assessment

Hail in this range affects exterior surfaces and rooftop components. Stones between about 0.9 and 1.2 inches fall slightly larger than a US quarter (1.00 inch). Expect denting to vehicle panels, chips to paint, and damage to soft metal trim. Asphalt shingle surfaces can sustain granule loss and bruising, especially on older or weathered roofs. Air-conditioner condenser fins and exposed rooftop HVAC components may incur fin damage and bent housings. Vinyl siding and skylights are at risk of cracking where impacts concentrate. Localized accumulation of impacts can increase leak potential at flashings, gutters, and roof penetrations.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize visual roof inspections in the radar-identified track, starting with older roofs and properties showing multiple impact clusters. Document damage with time-stamped photos, GPS coordinates, and scale references. A US quarter equals 1.00 inch and is a valid on-site size reference. Record existing roof condition and fastener patterns. Check HVAC condensers, gutter systems, vents, and skylights for dents and perforations. Note whether damage is surface-level granule loss or penetrative impacts.

Maintain standard jobsite safety and temporary protection protocols. Deploy tarps and temporary flashing where active leaks are present. Prepare scope estimates that separate cosmetic surface repairs from structural or reroofing needs. Coordinate inspections with property owners and insurers and maintain clear photo logs for claims. Use canvass zones to prioritize field work in the most impacted neighborhoods and schedule follow-up inspections for properties at the fringe of the hail track.

Refer to the paid Strike Map for the radar-confirmed hail swath and damage zone.