Albuquerque Hit by Record-Breaking HailstormAlbuquerque Hit by Record-Breaking Hailstorm Albuquerque, New Mexico, was ravaged by a record-breaking hailstorm on Saturday, July 22, 2023, causing widespread damage and leaving the city in a state of shock. The storm, which struck around 5:00 PM, brought with it hail that reached unprecedented sizes. According to the National Weather Service, the largest hailstones measured 5.5 inches in diameter—the equivalent of a baseball. This made it the largest hail ever recorded in the Albuquerque area. The hail caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles. Roofs were punctured, windows shattered, and cars were dented beyond repair. The storm also brought torrential rain, which caused flooding in several areas of the city. Emergency responders were quickly deployed to assist those affected by the storm. Police and firefighters worked throughout the night to secure damaged structures, clear debris, and evacuate residents from flooded homes. The storm also disrupted power and communications in many parts of the city. Over 200,000 homes and businesses lost power, and cell phone service was intermittent. Repair crews worked around the clock to restore essential utilities. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency for Albuquerque and surrounding areas. She activated the National Guard to assist with recovery efforts, and requested federal aid from FEMA. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but preliminary estimates indicate that it could exceed $1 billion. Insurance companies are bracing for a surge in claims as homeowners and businesses begin to file for repairs. Albuquerque residents are still reeling from the storm’s impact. Many are without shelter, food, or power. Community organizations and volunteers have stepped up to provide aid, offering food, water, and shelter to those in need. The hailstorm serves as a reminder of the destructive power of nature. It is imperative that communities remain prepared for extreme weather events, and have plans in place to respond to such emergencies.