Golf ball-sized hail detected near Stillwater, OK on June 23, 2026

Damage assessment

The radar-confirmed strike landed approximately 11 miles south of downtown Stillwater, with one hail report logged across Payne County that day. At 1.75 inches, golf ball-sized hail is large enough to cause functional damage to standard architectural asphalt shingles — the material that dominates Stillwater's housing stock. Functional damage means the shingle's waterproofing layer is compromised, not just surface bruising; age accelerates that outcome, and roofs older than 10–15 years are most vulnerable. Payne County's largest recorded event reached 4.25 inches, so this storm sits well below the county's worst, but 1.75 inches still clears the threshold where real structural harm is possible.

Stillwater repair cost reference

Historical context

This event ranks 45th out of 135 hail events of 1 inch or greater recorded in the Stillwater area over the past 10 years, placing it in the middle of the historical distribution. The largest event on record reached 4.25 inches on May 11, 2017. June historically produces about 12 hail events per year in this county, making this a typical occurrence for the month.

Storm system

The June 23 storm was part of a broader regional outbreak, with half-dollar-sized hail also reported near Tulsa and marble-sized hail near Oklahoma City the same day — a pattern consistent with a multi-cell system moving across central Oklahoma.

Contractor guidance

Local contractor data shows current backlogs running 2 to 4 weeks in the Stillwater market. The intake assessment rates storm chaser risk as moderate, noting that out-of-area contractors move in after significant regional events when local capacity is tight. Oklahoma requires roofing contractors to register with the state under the Oklahoma Roofing Contractor Registration Act before performing any work — verify registration status before signing anything. Also confirm current general liability insurance, workers' compensation coverage, and ask for references and manufacturer certifications.

Permits & building code

At 1.75 inches, repair is possible on newer roofs in good condition, but replacement is the more common outcome on aged or previously compromised shingles. Permits run $150 to $350 in this area; the contractor pulls the permit, and an inspection is required before the work is closed out. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10–20% discount with most Oklahoma insurers.