Ping pong-sized hail detected near Ames, IA on June 11, 2026
Hail was detected at a radar-indicated point within the Ames monitoring area. Actual impact can vary by neighborhood, so nearby homes should use this as a signal to check roofs, gutters, siding, and vehicles.
Damage assessment
The hail strike occurred approximately 12 miles south of downtown Ames, with one report logged in Story County that day. At 1.5 inches, hail typically causes functional damage to standard architectural asphalt shingles — expect granule loss, exposed mat, and potential punctures on older roofs. Shingles over 15 years old face higher risk of cracking and seal failure. This event ranked #60 of 176 recorded hail events in the county's 10-year record.
With a median home value of $350,000, a typical 2% deductible would be $7,000, while repair costs for a 2,000 sqft home average $6,243. Get a professional inspection before making any insurance decisions.
At these numbers, you're better off repairing out of pocket — the typical repair cost falls below your deductible. Filing a claim likely isn't worth it unless a full inspection reveals significantly more damage.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Ames inspection
Ames repair cost reference
Historical context
This event ranks #60 of 176 hail events ≥1 inch recorded in Story County over the past decade. The largest event on record was 3-inch hail on July 9, 2021. June historically sees above-average hail activity with 31 events in the 10-year record, though May remains the peak month with 72 events.
Storm system
This was part of a broader hail-producing system that affected multiple states, with Lancaster, Nebraska receiving 3.5-inch hail the same day.
Contractor guidance
Local contractor data shows current backlogs of 1–2 weeks with low storm chaser risk. Most contractors serve Ames from larger nearby markets, which can extend response times. Iowa Code § 103A.71 requires specific contract disclosures for insurance-related work, and contractors cannot waive your deductible under Iowa Code §§ 103A.71 and 515.137A. Verify general liability, workers' comp, and the Iowa disclosure before signing.
Permits & building code
At 1.5 inches, repair is more likely than full replacement for most roofs. Contractors pull permits ($100–$250) and inspection is required. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most Iowa insurers.
- 1Document exterior damage with photos showing hail impact points on gutters, siding, and roof edges
- 2Get a repair estimate from a licensed contractor before contacting your insurer — at these numbers, out-of-pocket repair is likely cheaper than filing a claim.
- 3Collect fallen hail samples and measure — store in freezer if possible
- 4Research contractors through Iowa Insurance Division and verify required licensing disclosures
- 5Keep detailed records of all storm-related communications and estimates
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Ames inspection
Data from NOAA NEXRAD radar (SWDI) — radar-confirmed, pending full National Weather Service write-up.