Butte, NE Hail Storm – September 2026

Butte, NE experienced a multi-zone severe hail event on September 7, 2026, with a peak radar-detected hail stone of 2.41" and repeated NWS warnings through the evening. The event moved through the metro from early evening into late night and has concluded.

What Happened

Seventeen NWS alerts were issued for the Butte metro between 6:13 PM CDT and 11:55 PM CDT on September 7. Four of those alerts were flagged by dual-polarization NEXRAD radar returns. The first radar-detected signature occurred at 6:13 PM CDT, indicating approximately 1.10" hail. The most intense radar signature occurred at 6:45 PM CDT. Additional radar detections were recorded at 8:24 PM CDT (about 1.22") and at 11:12 PM CDT (about 1.75").

The remaining alerts were NWS warning only products reporting smaller hail signatures and warning polygons. Multiple NWS warning-only messages between late evening and just before midnight indicated repeated 0.75" and 1.00" hail signatures in the broader warning area. The sequence shows a primary pulse in the early evening with intermittent follow-up cells later in the night.

Damage Assessment

Radar-detected 1.75" hail at 11:12 PM CDT occurred late enough that exterior exposures were vulnerable to sudden impact. Stones at that size can break older skylight and single-pane glass, dent unprotected metal panels on vehicles, and compromise asphalt roof shingles where granule loss or prior wear exists.

Radar detections near 1.22" and 1.10" correspond with hail capable of producing cosmetic damage to finish surfaces, windshield pitting on long-term exposure, and denting on thinner metal components such as aluminum gutters and AC coils. Repeated pulses of 0.75" to 1.00" hail across the warning area increase the risk of cumulative abrasion to siding and soft roofing materials in the metro.

Field inspections in Butte should prioritize roof covers installed within the warning polygon and vehicles parked outdoors between 6:00 PM and midnight. Document the time-stamped location of damage and capture scale references in photographs for each affected surface.

What Contractors Should Know

Inspect roofs for shingle fracture, granule loss, and exposed underlayment, starting with properties inside the NWS warning area issued between 6:13 PM and 11:55 PM CDT. Check rooftop mechanicals, solar arrays, and metal flashings for dents and torn seals. For vehicles, note hood and roof panel dents and windshield chips. Use time-stamped photos and include a measurable reference for each damaged item.

Prioritize temporary protection where water intrusion is likely and avoid roof work during wet or windy conditions. Coordinate with property owners to confirm insurance contacts and secure signed access permission before detailed repairs. Paid users can reference the Strike Map to view the radar-confirmed hail swath and the paid damage zone for this event.