Chalmers, IN Hail Storm – September 2026

Chalmers, IN experienced a multi-zone hail event on September 17, 2026, with peak hail measured at 1.75 inches. The storm concluded the same night after passing through the Chalmers metro area.

What Happened

A severe thunderstorm produced multiple hail cores in the Chalmers area during the early evening of September 17, 2026. The NWS issued two severe thunderstorm warnings for the event: one at 8:20 PM EDT (00:20 UTC) citing 0.75-inch hail and a second at 8:29 PM EDT (00:29 UTC) citing 1.00-inch hail. Both warnings were tagged as NWS warning only. Subsequent radar analysis identified stronger returns within the aggregated storm footprint, with hail detection reaching up to 1.75 inches in the mapped area.

Timing was concentrated in the early evening hours. Warnings and radar alerts were issued within a 10-minute span as hail cores intensified and shifted across the metro. The event is categorized as concluded for Chalmers; no active warnings remained after the late-evening scans.

Damage Assessment

Hail reached a maximum of 1.75 inches in the Chalmers warning area. Hail of this size can produce dents in vehicle body panels and damage softer roof coverings. Single-pane windows and skylights are at elevated risk of breakage under direct strikes. Asphalt shingles may sustain granule loss and bruising that can shorten expected service life. Outdoor equipment, air-conditioning condensing units, and unprotected siding are also vulnerable.

Reports and radar mapping show the most significant hail cores tracked through the northwestern portion of the Chalmers metro. Inspectors should prioritize vehicle fleets stored outdoors, residential roofs with older or composite shingle coverings, and exposed mechanical equipment in that sector.

What Contractors Should Know

Begin with a rapid visual survey of the hardest-hit neighborhoods in northwestern Chalmers noted by the radar mapping. Photograph vehicle panels, roof fields, gutters, and exposed equipment before performing temporary repairs. Record exact locations and times for each inspection entry. Temporary tarping can prevent water intrusion on damaged roofs while you document and schedule permanent repairs.

Prioritize safety and materials staging. Use ground-based lifts when possible to limit ladder exposure on potentially damaged roofing. Order replacement shingles and flashing based on observed material types rather than assumed matches. Coordinate with property owners on insurance documentation and provide itemized estimates that reference the event date and local NWS warnings at 8:20 PM and 8:29 PM EDT.

View the paid Strike Map for the radar-confirmed hail swath and the mapped damage zone for deployment planning and field verification.