Golf ball-sized hail detected near Bismarck, ND on July 24, 2026

Damage assessment

The strike was radar-indicated approximately 12 miles northeast of downtown Bismarck, with one confirmed report logged in Burleigh County that day. At 2 inches, hail in this size range routinely causes functional damage to standard architectural asphalt shingles — cracked or missing granules, compromised mat integrity, and accelerated weathering that shortens remaining roof life. Cosmetic-only outcomes are possible on newer installations, but shingles older than 10 years are more vulnerable to functional loss at this magnitude. Burleigh County's record hail event reached 4.5 inches on July 29, 2024 — today's event is well below that threshold but still above the 1.5-inch level where functional damage becomes likely on most shingle types.

Bismarck repair cost reference

Historical context

This event ranks 32nd out of 150 recorded hail events of 1 inch or greater in the Bismarck area over the past 10 years, placing it in the upper quarter by magnitude. The largest event on record for Burleigh County was 4.5 inches on July 29, 2024 — a size that causes functional loss across all shingle types. July is historically the most active hail month in this county, with 77 events recorded in the past decade, and this event fits that well-established pattern.

Storm system

The same-day record shows 2-inch hail also detected in Brown County, South Dakota, and 1.25-inch hail in Grand Forks, North Dakota, indicating this was part of a broader regional convective system rather than an isolated cell.

Contractor guidance

Local contractor data shows current backlogs running 2 to 4 weeks in the Bismarck market. The intake assessment rates storm chaser risk as moderate, consistent with Bismarck's pattern of drawing out-of-area contractors after notable regional events. North Dakota does not require a state-specific roofing license, so ask any contractor for proof of a valid general contractor or municipal construction license, general liability insurance, and workers' compensation coverage. Verify a physical North Dakota business address and check references before signing anything — a deductible waiver offer is a red flag under state law and constitutes insurance fraud.

Permits & building code

At 2 inches, outcomes range from targeted repair to full replacement depending on roof age and pre-existing condition — an inspection will determine which applies. The contractor pulls the permit in Bismarck, permit costs run $150 to $350, and an inspection is required before work is closed out. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most North Dakota insurers.