Emma Pritchard

A ferocious storm which swept across the Clarence Valley on November 12 left a trail of destruction and caused significant damage to several homes and vehicles.

Junction Hill and Koolkhan, north of Grafton, were among the worst hit suburbs with numerous properties including houses under construction in Gibraltar View Estate severely impacted as large hailstones and strong wind gusts tore through the area shortly before 4pm.

More than 8000 residences and local businesses were without power for hours following the storm, as Essential Energy crews worked throughout the night, commencing repairs.

Sue Chapple, Clarence Valley Local Commander from the NSW SES Grafton City Unit, said more than 30 requests for assistance were received on Saturday afternoon and evening, with a majority of the call outs made by Junction Hill residents with damaged and leaking roofs and broken skylights.

Upon arriving in the suburb, Ms Chapple said it was like a mini tornado had hit the neighbourhood.

“We saw sheds that had just been lifted up and flung away, and the depth of hail that had fallen in some places was over a foot deep,” she recalled.

“It was still on the ground three to four hours later.

“At one property, a whole car port roof had completely lifted off and landed in the yard next door, which goes to show the strength of the wind in that storm.

“In Gibraltar View Estate, a lot of the houses had been quite badly damaged, and the scaffolding on some of the new homes had been blown away.

“It looked like the storm had picked a particular path and stayed on it, and Junction Hill was the worst hit area.”

NSW SES crews from Ballina, Casino, Coffs Harbour, Dorrigo, and Lismore arrived in the Clarence Valley on November 13 to assist with the clean-up operation and offer additional support to residents.

“It was very helpful to have other crews come and help us out,” Ms Chapple said appreciatively.

As the summer months approach, more thunderstorms are expected throughout the region, with a majority forecast to occur during mid to late afternoon.

Ms Chapple is encouraging Clarence Valley residents to follow the latest weather reports and warnings.

Locals are also advised to visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au for information regarding storm safety plans and preparation.

Anyone requiring assistance following a storm is urged to contact NSW SES on 132 500, or Triple Zero (000) in a life-threatening situation.