Big Wells, TX Hail Storm – April 2026

Big Wells, TX — April 30–May 1, 2026: An active severe storm is tracking through Big Wells and producing hail up to 3.25 inches in diameter. Multiple radar-detected alerts and an NWS warning are ongoing as conditions continue to develop.

What Happened

The storm initiated late on April 30 and continued into the early hours of May 1, tracking across central and southern portions of Big Wells. Sequence of NWS alerts and detections is as follows:

• April 30 · 11:33 PM CDT — dual-polarization radar detected 2.91-inch hail over the western approach to Big Wells.
• May 1 · 12:02 AM CDT — NWS issued a severe thunderstorm warning noting 2.00-inch hail in the broader warning area.
• May 1 · 12:05 AM CDT — dual-polarization radar detected 1.28-inch hail southeast of town.
• May 1 · 12:42 AM CDT — dual-polarization radar detected 1.81-inch hail moving northeast through the central zone.
• May 1 · 12:47 AM CDT — dual-polarization radar detected 1.00-inch hail just east of the municipal boundary.
• May 1 · 1:28 AM CDT — dual-polarization radar detected 1.63-inch hail on the storm flank as it continued northeast.

Radar-derived detections account for the majority of the alerts. The largest hail measurement for this event is 3.25 inches, and the storm remains active and capable of producing additional large hail as it tracks through the area.

Damage Assessment

Hail measured between 1.0 and 1.8 inches typically produces cosmetic and functional damage to vehicle paint, rooftop shingles, and vinyl siding in the affected sectors of Big Wells. Hail above 2.0 inches increases the risk of broken vehicle glass, dented metal panels, and localized structural damage to older roofing.

Hail near the peak size of 3.25 inches can cause severe damage to vehicles, puncture asphalt shingles, and compromise skylights or solar panels where exposed in the storm path. Structures with existing roof wear or unsecured exterior equipment in central and southern Big Wells are at higher risk. Field assessments should prioritize areas where radar-detected hail tracks intersect residential clusters and commercial properties.

What Contractors Should Know

Safety is the immediate priority. Worksites in the active warning area should suspend rooftop and exterior repairs until the storm moves out and NWS warnings have expired. Expect scattered debris and broken glass on streets and driveways; secure tarps and temporary covers only after conditions are verified safe by local authorities.

For initial inspections, document hail diameters observed on-site and photograph damage to vehicles, roofs, and panels with scale references. Focus first on roofing systems, skylights, solar installations, and vehicle fleets reported within the radar-detected swath. Coordinate with property owners for prioritized temporary repairs and reserve full replacement estimates until post-storm field verification is complete.