Terlingua, TX Hail Storm – October 2026

Terlingua, TX — October 13, 2026: A severe thunderstorm moved through the Terlingua metro area late evening into the overnight hours, producing hail up to 2.74 inches and a concentrated hail track across the region.

What Happened

The storm developed in the late evening of October 13 and persisted into the early morning of October 14. NWS products and radar outputs issued five distinct alerts for the system. At 8:20 PM CDT on October 13 the NWS issued a warning area noting 1.00-inch hail. Radar-detected hail sizes were reported at 10:32 PM CDT (2.17 inches) and at 11:18 PM CDT (2.63 inches). Additional NWS warning-area notices followed at 12:06 AM CDT and 1:22 AM CDT on October 14, each indicating 1.00-inch hail. The alert sequence shows initial warning-area reports followed by dual-polarization radar detections later in the event. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Observed hail sizes during the event ranged from standard severe thresholds to near-baseball scale. 1.00-inch hail can produce visible dents in vehicle panels and localized damage to vinyl siding and soft roofing materials. Radar-detected hail in the 2.17–2.63 inch range exceeds golf-ball size and is capable of breaking windows, cracking skylights, and causing substantial shingle loss on asphalt roofs. The event’s peak measurement reached 2.74 inches, just under the baseball-sized 2.75-inch reference, a size that commonly causes major structural damage to unprotected roofing, embedded pitting in metal surfaces, and severe vehicle damage.

Field observations and the alert timeline indicate the most intense hail intensity was concentrated in a late-evening to early-overnight corridor. Property owners in and near the radar-detected track should expect repair-level impacts consistent with the sizes listed above. Photographic evidence and ground reports will better define localized loss and attachment failures for individual structures.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize safety and scene control on arrival. Hail-damaged roofs often have loose granules, split or missing shingles, and impact punctures that create water intrusion risk. Document conditions with time-stamped photos before moving materials. Start with temporary tarping only after confirming secure access and roof stability.

Perform a targeted initial inspection of vehicles, roofing, skylights, solar arrays, and exterior equipment. Note impact size and concentration to guide scope of repairs. Prepare for insurance inspections by compiling the radar-detected alert timeline and on-site imagery. Schedule follow-up inspections for hidden damage such as membrane breaches, weakened flashing, and attic leaks.

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