Residents throughout the Lower Hunter are counting the cost of a freak hail storm, which struck with ferocity on Boxing Day.

About 1.30pm on Tuesday 26 December, icy stones – some as large as golf balls – forced cars off roads throughout the Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Maitland LGAs.

But, within 10 minutes, the skies cleared again, as people inspected their “white” lawns and vehicles, parked on the street, for any damage.

Skylights, roof tiles and windows fell victim to the onslaught, too.

Emergency services, including the NSW SES, were also called to several premises around the Rutherford and Aberglasslyn neighbourhoods.

More than 50 people called for help in under an hour after bearing the brunt of the hail storm.

“We’re expecting further storms into the evening, and some of them may be severe,” NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said.

“We may see a recurrence of the weather experienced on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with potential threats of damaging winds, large hail and intense heavy rainfall.”

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) forecast further thunderstorms to affect areas between Lake Macquarie and Seal Rocks as well.

More wet weather, and possible hail storms, are predicted over the next week.

The NSW State Emergency Service advises that people should:

• Move your car under cover or away from trees
• Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony
• Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences
• Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill
• Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall
• Keep clear of creeks and storm drains
• Don’t walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water
• If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue
• Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks
• After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides
• Unplug computers and appliances
• Avoid using the phone during the storm
• Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well
• Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires
• For emergency help in floods and storms, phone the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.

For more news stories:

• Cocaine washes up on beaches between Newcastle and Sydney
• Dusk patrols to heighten safety in Port Stephens following recent drownings
• Motorists warned not to be ‘elfish’ near Newcastle road works

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