Hail storm near Topeka, KS: May 18, 2026
Storm date · Data updated November 6, 2026 · General information, not insurance or legal advice.
What happened: NOAA's Storm Prediction Center received 1 preliminary report of hail 1 inch or larger within 50 miles of Topeka on May 18, 2026, with stones up to 1.50 inches (6 NNW Volland, Wabaunsee Co., KS). The same day brought 27 wind-damage or severe-gust reports in the area.[1] Preliminary reports can include duplicates and are not a survey of your block. They help you match any roof damage to a storm date.
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Areas with reports
Reports came from these places and counties (SPC preliminary data):
- Volland, Wabaunsee Co.
- Manhattan, Riley Co.
- Louisville, Pottawatomie Co.
- Corning, Nemaha Co.
- Woodlawn, Nemaha Co.
- Circleville, Jackson Co.
- Holton, Jackson Co.
- Muscotah, Atchison Co.
- Dover, Wabaunsee Co.
- Pauline, Shawnee Co.
Counties: Wabaunsee County, KS; Riley County, KS; Pottawatomie County, KS; Nemaha County, KS; Jackson County, KS; Atchison County, KS; Shawnee County, KS; Jefferson County, KS; Osage County, KS; Douglas County, KS; Leavenworth County, KS; Johnson County, KS; Wyandotte County, KS.
How to check your roof for hail damage
- From the ground, look for dents on gutters, downspouts, window wraps, vents, and A/C fins. Soft metal shows hail size and direction.
- Look for shingle granules collecting at downspout outlets.
- Dark spots or bruises on shingles, cracked tile, or dented metal panels can mean impact damage. Small damage often isn't visible from the ground.
- Do not climb on the roof. A free inspection from a licensed local roofer is safer.
Document it now
- Take dated photos of the roof, gutters, siding, windows, and any hail you collected (next to a coin or ruler).
- Write down the storm date (May 18, 2026) and when you first noticed damage.
- Cover active leaks with a tarp only if it's safe, and keep receipts.
- Read your policy for deadlines. Only your insurer decides what is covered.
Beware of storm chasers
After a storm, out-of-town crews often knock on doors. Check that a roofer has a local address, any required state or city license, and insurance, and never sign a contract on the spot. See the FTC's advice[2] and our storm chaser guide.
Next steps
Get a free, no-obligation inspection. A local contractor documents what they find, and you decide what to do. See roof replacement cost in Kansas, Kansas City, or all Kansas cities.
Frequently asked questions
Was my roof damaged in the May 18, 2026 storm?
Storm reports show regional activity, not damage to a specific roof. Only an inspection can document damage.
Is the storm damage inspection free?
Yes. It is free, with no obligation, for homeowners in our service markets.
Will insurance cover storm damage?
Only your insurer can decide that, based on your policy and the cause of the damage. No contractor can promise coverage.
Sources
- NOAA Storm Prediction Center, storm reports (preliminary). www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/reports/
- FTC, How to Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters. consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scams-after-weather-emergencies-and-natural-
Sources checked November 4, 2026. Estimates are not quotes. Roofing, insurance, and legal details vary. Confirm with your contractor, insurer, or attorney.