March 31, 2026 Storm: Golf Ball-Sized Hail Hits Southwest Chicago Suburbs

On March 31, 2026, the southwest Chicago suburbs took a direct hit from a fast-moving storm carrying golf ball-sized hail and powerful straight-line winds. Coming so soon after the March 10 event, many homeowners now face a second round of roof damage — and a second insurance claim window.

The storm moved through during the evening hours, catching many residents off guard. Hailstones around 1.75 inches — roughly golf ball size — fell across a dense band of suburbs stretching from Oak Lawn through Tinley Park and Orland Park. Combined with wind gusts over 60 mph, the storm tore at shingles, dented gutters and vents, and battered siding across the region.

Storm Timeline

• Early evening — Storm approaches
  A line of severe storms moves in from the west toward the Chicago metro.
• Evening — Oak Lawn & nearby suburbs
  Golf ball-sized hail and 60+ mph winds hit Oak Lawn, Burbank, and Bridgeview.
• Evening — Southwest corridor
  Hail continues through Tinley Park, Orland Park, Palos Heights, and Palos Hills.
• Aftermath
  Widespread roof, gutter, and siding damage reported across 15+ communities.

A Second Hit in Three Weeks

For many southwest-suburb homeowners, March 31 was the second damaging storm in less than a month. If your roof was already compromised by an earlier storm, this event may have made hidden damage significantly worse — which is exactly why a professional inspection matters before you file.

Cities Impacted by the March 31 Storm

We're helping homeowners across the southwest suburbs with free roof inspections and full insurance claim support. Find your city below:

What to Do If Your Home Was Hit

1. Don't wait — but don't climb up either

Hail damage is easy to miss and dangerous to inspect yourself. Stay off the roof and let a professional document it properly for your claim.

2. Get a professional inspection before you file

Knowing the full extent of your damage before filing means nothing gets missed or underpaid. Our inspections are free and come with photo documentation.

3. Let a claim specialist handle the carrier

We file the claim, communicate with your insurance company, and stand with you at the adjuster meeting so the damage is represented fairly.