How are HailTrax™ and HailExpress™ products different than other hail products out there? HailTrax and HailExpress utilize a WDT enhanced Hailswath Detection Algorithm (HDA) originally developed at the National Severe Storms Laboratory, in combination with NEXRAD Doppler radar and observed hail data from National Weather Service (NWS) observers. HailTrax then extracts hail size and the geographic coordinates where hail fell. Data disseminated by the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC), Property Loss Research Bureau (PLRB) and most commercial weather vendors, only contain human observations of hail reported by NWS observers.

Why do hailswaths start at 3/4" in diameter? Up until recently, the NWS considered "severe" hail to be greater than or equal to 3/4" in diameter. Beginning in 2010, the NWS accepted standard definition of severe hail is considered to be 1" in diameter and greater. Hail smaller than 3/4" is difficult to distinguish from heavy rainfall using radar data. Hail above 2" is a relatively rare occurrence, but can cause significant damage when it occurs.

How accurate is HailTrax? HailTrax reports are the most sophisticated and accurate hail verification reports available, relied upon by insurance carriers, roofing engineers and contractors. Scientific evidence indicates hail detected and reported using NEXRAD and its attendant hail algorithm to be 92% or more accurate at estimating the size of hail stones and greater than 96% accurate at detecting a hail storm over a 24 hour period. See Technical Papers for more details.

What if my hail claim goes to court? We stand behind every hail report we produce. HailTrax and HailTrax Litigation Package reports are designed purposely for address-specific losses. HailExpress service is designed for speedy delivery of general information regarding hailswath location and therefore should not be used for address-specific events. If you need technical expertise to assist in a legal case, see our experts page or contact us at for phone consultation, deposition and court appearances. Hourly fees quoted upon request.

In what areas of the country are reports available? Hail reports are available for any location/address within the contiguous United States. Call for availability of data in Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

What if I need to search for a hail event, spanning several weeks, months or years? For losses spanning several weeks or months, our meteorologists can create a customized Hail Analysis Report. Hail Analysis are hail reports that do not utilize the radar algorithm, but are comprised of our meteorologist's review of the available National Weather Service human observation hail data records, compiling a report and presenting a meteorological opinion.

How soon will my HailExpress service start, once I sign up? HailExpress Service can start as soon as your order is placed. If the date or dates of your purchase are past dates, the data are available immediately and posted to your account. Click on the calendar date you purchased and wish to view.

Why can't I get HailTrax Reports online? While weather reports may all seem similar, the technology needed to produce a HailTrax Report is significantly different from the technology of producing a LightningTrax report. HailTrax Reports require data analysis, review and quality assurance by a trained meteorologist, to fulfill the order. HailTrax Reports are delivered, via email, within 2-3 business days.

I am a homeowner and think I have hail damage on my property. What should I do? Contact your insurance company immediately to determine if you need to file a claim. Take action to limit any additional damage (leaks, etc.) by following the procedures recommended by your insurance company or learn more at www.ibhs.org