Northwood, ND Hail Storm – September 2026

Northwood, ND experienced a hail-producing thunderstorm on September 6, 2026, with peak radar-detected hail measuring 1.32 inches. The system progressed through the area from late afternoon into the early evening and produced multiple NWS alerts.

What Happened

The storm affected the Northwood area during late afternoon into early evening on September 6, 2026. The NWS issued three distinct alerts for the system. At 4:58 PM CDT (21:58 UTC) dual-polarization radar detected hail associated with the cell and the alert indicated hail near 1.00 inch. At 6:11 PM CDT (23:11 UTC) a subsequent NWS warning reported hail near 0.88 inch. At 7:27 PM CDT (00:27 UTC) a final NWS warning noted hail near 0.75 inch. The event is concluded. Radar returns and the sequence of warnings show repeated hail echoes along the storm’s path through the metro area.

Damage Assessment

NWS alerts and radar returns indicate hail sizes primarily clustered below 1.00 inch on the earliest warnings, with radar analysis later identifying a peak of 1.32 inches in the storm footprint. Hail in the three-alert sequence can produce cosmetic damage to vehicles, including dents and chipped paint on exposed panels. Asphalt shingles can incur bruising and granule loss where hail repeatedly impacted the same area, particularly on older or already-weathered roofs. Outdoor equipment and soft materials such as screens, vinyl siding, and garden plants are at elevated risk for punctures or tearing in localized spots. Broken glass and structural failures are not the primary expectation for hail of these reported sizes, but vulnerable installations such as skylights, unsecured solar panels, and older greenhouses should be inspected.

What Contractors Should Know

Prioritize vehicle and roof inspections that match the alert footprint and timing. Document hail patterns with timestamped photos and GPS locations. For roofing, note granule loss, bruising beneath shingles, and concentrated impact lines. For siding and windows, check for pitting, cracks, and punctures. Create a triage list that separates cosmetic repairs from items that present immediate weather exposure risk.

Estimate replacement versus repair costs on a structure-by-structure basis. Obtain multiple bids for roofing or exterior work where granule loss or multiple dents are present. Secure loose materials and tarps where necessary to prevent secondary water intrusion before permanent repairs. Follow standard safety protocols on ladders and roofs and stage equipment outside of known warning-area streets.

See the Strike Map for the paid product to view the radar-confirmed hail swath and the storm’s mapped damage zone.