Parsons, KS Hail Storm – September 2026

Parsons, KS — September 20, 2026. A multi-alert thunderstorm moved across the Parsons metro area from mid-afternoon into early evening and produced a peak radar-detected hail size of 1.34 inches.

What Happened

The storm produced seven NWS alerts between 2:25 PM CDT and 5:59 PM CDT. The first alert, at 2:25 PM CDT, registered a 1.00-inch hail detection on dual-polarization radar. Subsequent NWS warning-only alerts were issued at 2:38 PM CDT (0.88 inch), 3:41 PM CDT (0.75 inch), 4:34 PM CDT (1.00 inch), 5:04 PM CDT (1.00 inch), 5:46 PM CDT (1.00 inch), and 5:59 PM CDT (1.00 inch). The alert sequence shows repeated warning-area coverage from mid-afternoon through early evening.

Post-event analysis of radar returns found a maximum radar-derived hail size of 1.34 inches within the storm track. Radar detections and the initial dual-polarization hit provide the basis for the reported peak size. The NWS warning-area footprint guided public alerts while radar-derived hail estimates identify the intense cores within that footprint. The storm is concluded.

Damage Assessment

Observed hail sizes in Parsons ranged from roughly three-quarters of an inch up to 1.34 inches. Hail at 0.75 inch typically produces cosmetic damage to plants and can dent softer materials. Hail near or above 1.00 inch commonly dents vehicle body panels, damages unprotected HVAC units, and can bruise or strip exterior siding. A 1.34-inch stone has sufficient mass to crack older skylights and to cause localized shingle granule loss on asphalt roofs that already show wear.

Given the distribution of radar detections and repeated warning-area coverage, expect the highest probability of impact along the radar-identified track through the Parsons metro. Municipal infrastructure and parked vehicles in exposed areas are most likely to show evidence of the event. Roofing inspections should prioritize slopes and orientations that face the storm track.

What Contractors Should Know

Document conditions immediately. Photograph hail size next to a ruler or coin, capture roofline elevations, and log exact locations with GPS or addressed coordinates. Start exterior inspections at roof ridges and proceed downslope to gutters and downspouts. Pay particular attention to asphalt shingle granule loss, denting of metal flashing and aluminum siding, and glazing damage on skylights and older windows. Note the observed hail-size range when filing estimates.

Plan crew deployment for early daylight inspections where safe access is available. Prioritize claims with visible vehicle damage and properties directly under the repeated warning-area segments listed in the event timeline. Coordinate temporary coverings for compromised roofing and document all provisional repairs. For contractors needing the radar-confirmed hail footprint and the paid damage zone overlay, purchase the Strike Map for the radar-confirmed hail swath and damage zone.