Hillsboro, KS Hail Storm – October 2026

Hillsboro, KS recorded a concluded hail event on October 13, 2026, producing stones up to 2.15 inches during a late-afternoon to early-evening storm. The episode generated a multi-alert sequence that tracked hail returns across the Hillsboro metro.

What Happened

The storm produced seven NWS alerts between 4:32 PM CDT and 7:38 PM CDT. Alerts and timing: 4:32 PM – 1.00 inch – NWS warning only; 5:06 PM – 1.00 inch – radar-detected dual-polarization return; 5:38 PM – 1.00 inch – radar-detected dual-polarization return; 5:57 PM – 1.00 inch – NWS warning only (two separate polygons issued at 5:57 PM); 7:31 PM – 0.75 inch – NWS warning only; 7:38 PM – 0.75 inch – NWS warning only. The dual-polarization returns at 5:06 PM and 5:38 PM indicate radar-detected hail signatures embedded in the warning sequence. The event moved through the Hillsboro metro in late afternoon into early evening and is no longer active.

Damage Assessment

Alerts reported hail sizes of 0.75 and 1.00 inch across multiple warning polygons, with radar detections indicating larger stones in places. Hail in the golf-ball range and approaching baseball size tends to produce vehicle dents, cracked or shattered skylights and siding damage when exposure is prolonged. Asphalt shingles can show granule loss, bruising, and edge fractures after impacts from stones in the golf-ball class. Metal roof panels, gutters, and outdoor HVAC units commonly display dents at these sizes.

For residential properties in Hillsboro, expect the highest vulnerability on vehicles left outdoors, unsecured solar panels, and older single-layer asphalt roofs. For light commercial buildings, pay attention to rooftop equipment and storefront glass. Vegetation and soft surfaces will show defoliation and bruising where impacts were concentrated.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and documentation. Photograph damage with a visible scale and GPS or time-stamp. Start exterior inspections at ground level for window, siding, and vehicle damage before moving to roofs. On roofs, look for granule loss, curled or fractured shingles, and concentrated impact patterns along the storm track. Use a floodlight at low angle to reveal bruising and hairline fractures. Note the Oct 13, 2026 event date and reference the local alert times when preparing estimates and claims documentation.

Temporary measures should protect interiors and critical equipment. Secure tarps on compromised roofs only after anchoring and fall protection are in place. Protect exposed HVAC and electrical equipment and document serial numbers and visible dents. Provide clients with clear, dated photo logs and concise repair timelines. Coordinate with insurers using precise descriptions of observed damage and the alert sequence when available.

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