Ping pong-sized hail detected near Cheyenne, WY on July 3, 2026
Hail was detected at a radar-indicated point within the Cheyenne 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 radar-confirmed strike landed approximately 18 miles east of downtown Cheyenne, with one hail report logged in Laramie County that day. At 1.5 inches, architectural asphalt shingles can sustain functional damage — bruising, granule loss, and cracked mat — particularly on roofs older than 10 to 15 years. Cosmetic-only damage is possible on newer shingles, but functional loss becomes more likely as shingles age and lose flexibility. Laramie County has recorded hail up to 4.25 inches, so this event sits well below the county's worst.
On a median Cheyenne home valued at $360,800, a 2% deductible works out to $7,216. Typical repair cost for a 2,000 square foot roof runs $5,436, with a range of $4,448 to $6,425. 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 Cheyenne inspection
Cheyenne repair cost reference
Historical context
This event ranks 106th out of 291 hail events measuring 1 inch or larger recorded in Laramie County over the past 10 years, placing it solidly in the middle of the county's hail record. The largest event on record hit 4.25 inches on May 26, 2019. July is historically the most active month for hail in this county, with 125 events over the past decade.
Storm system
This was not an isolated event — the same storm system produced 1.75-inch hail in Pennington County, SD and 1-inch hail in Larimer County, CO the same day, suggesting a broad severe weather track across the region.
Contractor guidance
Local contractor data shows current backlogs running 4 to 8 weeks, so scheduling sooner reduces wait time. The intake assessment rates storm chaser risk as high — Cheyenne draws out-of-state roofing crews within 24 to 48 hours of significant storms, so expect door-to-door solicitation. Wyoming does not require a state roofing contractor license, so verification falls entirely on the homeowner. Before signing anything, ask for general liability insurance, workers' compensation coverage, and industry certifications such as GAF Master Elite or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster — then confirm those documents are current.
Permits & building code
At 1.5 inches, repair rather than full replacement is the more likely outcome on roofs in good condition, though age and existing wear can shift that calculation. Cheyenne requires a permit for roof work — contractors pull the permit, inspections are required, and permit costs typically run $150 to $400. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for a 10 to 30% discount with most Wyoming insurers.
- 1Photograph your roof, gutters, downspouts, and any exterior surfaces from the ground — document condition before any work begins.
- 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.
- 3Verify contractor credentials before signing: request proof of liability insurance, workers' comp, and any industry certifications.
- 4Keep a written record of all contractor visits, quotes, and communications — note dates, names, and what was said.
- 5If a contractor offers to waive your deductible, contact the Wyoming Department of Insurance at doi.wyo.gov/consumers before proceeding.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Cheyenne inspection
Hail detection for this event is based on NOAA NEXRAD radar data via SWDI; a full NWS written confirmation is pending.