Wheatland, WY Hail Storm – September 2026

Wheatland, WY saw a concluded hail-bearing thunderstorm in the early evening of September 18, 2026, with peak radar-detected hail to 2.18 inches. The event produced multiple NWS alerts and radar hail detections across the Wheatland metro.

What Happened

The storm moved across the Wheatland metro during the early evening. NWS issued four alerts tied to the same storm system. Two alerts were based on NWS warning issuance only. Two alerts contained radar-detected hail signatures from dual-polarization NEXRAD processing.

Alert sequence and detection method:

• September 18 · 6:36 PM MDT (00:36 UTC): 0.75" hail — NWS warning only.
• September 18 · 7:42 PM MDT (01:42 UTC): 1.54" hail — dual-polarization radar detection.
• September 18 · 7:56 PM MDT (01:56 UTC): 0.75" hail — NWS warning only.
• September 18 · 8:22 PM MDT (02:22 UTC): 1.98" hail — dual-polarization radar detection.

Radar-detected returns at 7:42 PM and 8:22 PM MDT showed elevated reflectivity cores consistent with large hail. The event is concluded. Field verification and local spotter reports were used alongside radar to map the multi-zone hail footprint for this page.

Damage Assessment

Reported and radar-detected sizes across the warning areas ranged from coin-sized to near 2-inch objects. Penny-sized hail (0.75") commonly impacts soft materials and vegetation. Quarter-sized hail (1.00") and objects near golf ball size (1.75") regularly dent vehicle panels and damage roof shingles. Near 2-inch hail is capable of breaking skylights, cracking older roof coverings, and causing significant dents in metal surfaces.

Inspectors should expect concentrated damage along the storm track where dual-polarization radar returned large-hail signatures. Photographs and timed location stamps will matter for any claims. Note the type and age of roofing, presence of solar panels or exposed glass, and any localized accumulations that could have led to secondary damage to gutters or drainage systems.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize a rapid exterior assessment of roofs, vehicles, and exposed mechanical equipment in the Wheatland NWS warning areas. Look for split shingles, bruised asphalt granules, cracked vents, and dents in HVAC housings. On vehicles, focus on roof panels, windshields, and aluminum trim. Use measured size references in photos when possible (coin or ruler) and log the address or precise GPS coordinate for each observation.

For repairs, document pre-repair conditions with high-resolution images and retain any loose material removed from the roof. Stabilize temporary leaks with watertight covers and record timestamps for emergency measures. Coordinate closely with insurers and provide radar-derived timing and the NWS alert timestamps when filing. For a precise radar-confirmed hail swath and paid damage zone mapping, refer to the Strike Map product for this event.