Freak giant hail and flash flooding hit NSW North Coast
A freak weather event has hit the NSW North Coast, bringing giant hailstones and flooding to the region.
The storm has devastated Toormina in Coffs Harbour, with homes and buildings flooding and roofs reportedly collapsing.
At least 400 people were evacuated from Toormina Gardens Shopping Centre after a roof collapsed under the weight of the water at Lowes.
A severe thunderstorm warning is in place for Coffs Harbour, with the area already experiencing destructive winds, giant hail and heavy rainfall.
Hail measuring up to five centimetres has been recorded.
The extent of the damage to the area is not yet known, but there are currently no reports of any injuries.
NSW Fire and Rescue have assembled a strike team and are sending “all resources” from Sawtell and Coffs Harbour to help.
The NSW State Emergency Service has so far responded to over 280 requests for assistance, many of which are deemed “life-threatening”.
Police have advised residents to avoid travel in the Toormina area.
