Armidale is no stranger to significant hail storms, but last night’s severe storm that delivered an intense dump of large hail caught some by surprise.
The dogs were sounding the alarm before the Bureau of Meteorology, with social media posts and photos of large hail surfacing on social media before the severe thunderstorm warning was issued at 5.04pm. The first reports from around Dangarsleigh were from around 4.45pm, with most of Armidale then being pelted by large hail and heavy rain between 5 and 5.30pm.
Mark Barney‘s time lapse camera captured the storm as it rolled in to town, showing both the intensity and how quickly it came and went.
Both the Beardy St West and Taylor St causeways were closed, while QantasLink passengers were stuck on the plane in a holding pattern over Walcha unable to land until the storm passed.
Following the path of social media reports, the storm continued to move north, still delivering large hail at Black Mountain, but appears to have dissipated as quickly as it appeared, sparing Guyra from its destructive trail.
Damage to roofing and cars has been widely reported across town, certain to lead to another discussion about escalating premiums, insurers not honouring policies, and a significant backlog of work for local panel beaters. Mariott Smash Repairs were one of the first to ask for patience as they face a busy time ahead.
Armidale Golf Club reported damage to the greens, while the local SES had every vehicle and volunteer out to help people with trees down or roof damage.
The speed and ferocity of the storm reminded some of the tornado that hit Armidale just over 3 years ago.
Those in need of assistance please call the SES on 132500.
More to come.
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