West Columbia, SC Hail Storm – August 2026

West Columbia, SC – August 6, 2026: A late‑afternoon thunderstorm moved through West Columbia, producing hail up to 1.28 inches and multiple intense cores across the metro area.

What Happened

NWS issued 11 hail-related alerts between 3:10 PM EDT and 7:35 PM EDT on August 6. The first warning began at 3:10 PM EDT and the final NWS alert cleared at 7:35 PM EDT. Dual-polarization radar detected a strong hail core at 4:05 PM EDT that returned a 1.21-inch hail signal. The remaining alerts were issued on the basis of NWS warning polygons without independent radar hail cores recorded at those specific times. The event concluded in the early evening as convection weakened and warnings were canceled.

Alerts of note included warnings issued at 3:10 PM EDT, 4:05 PM EDT (radar-detected), 4:40 PM EDT, 4:48 PM EDT, 4:53 PM EDT, 4:54 PM EDT, 4:59 PM EDT, 5:48 PM EDT, 6:09 PM EDT, 6:42 PM EDT, and 7:35 PM EDT. These alerts covered a continuous corridor through parts of West Columbia and adjacent neighborhoods. Radar returns and the alert sequence indicate intermittent, concentrated hail cores embedded within the storm as it moved across the area.

Damage Assessment

Hail from this event ranged from three-quarter-inch up to the peak reported size. Hail in the three-quarter- to 1.25-inch range can produce visible denting to unprotected metal and automotive surfaces, bruise or remove shingle granulation on aged asphalt roofs, and crack or puncture weaker glazing such as skylights. Localized concentrations of larger hail are most likely where the radar-detected core passed overhead.

Roofing systems with existing wear are at higher risk for granular loss and shingle deformation along the storm track inside the NWS warning area. Vehicles left outdoors in driveways or lots within that corridor are likely to show denting. Outdoor equipment and soft-surfaced coatings on siding and trim may exhibit cosmetic damage where hail fell in heavier cores. No spotter-verified structural collapse or catastrophic failures are included in the alert record for this event.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize inspections where NWS warnings overlapped built-up residential and commercial areas between 3:10 PM EDT and 7:35 PM EDT, and where dual-polarization radar indicated the 1.21-inch core near 4:05 PM EDT. Document existing roof conditions before repairs. Photograph shingle granule loss, dents on metal panels and vehicles, and any cracked glazing. Use close-up and overview images with timestamps and location notes to support scope and claims.

Triage work by leak potential and safety. Address compromised skylights, open flashing, and fascia that could permit water entry. Temporary tarping is appropriate when leaks are active; secure tarps to avoid additional wind damage. Provide clients an itemized scope separating cosmetic dents from functional roofing failures. Coordinate timing with insurers when possible, and schedule follow-up inspections for panels, gutters, and nearby trees that can sustain delayed failure after impact.