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Australia's Freak Storm: Hail Like Snow, Winds of 119km/h
24 Nov
Summary
- A severe storm in Port Pirie brought hail resembling snow and 119 km/h winds.
- Thousands experienced power outages, with damaged homes and downed trees reported.
- A major heatwave is simultaneously forecast for large parts of Australia this week.
A severe storm recently struck Port Pirie in South Australia, unleashing conditions described as unprecedented for the region. Residents witnessed hail accumulation that resembled a snow dump, accompanied by destructive winds gusting up to 119 km/h. This tempest caused significant damage, ripping out powerlines, felling numerous trees, and destroying homes, leaving thousands without power and facing a massive clean-up operation.
The storm's intensity caught emergency services and meteorologists by surprise, as it was not widely anticipated. The State Emergency Service responded to over 350 call-outs. Simultaneously, Australia is preparing for a significant heatwave set to grip large portions of the country. This surge in temperature is attributed to atmospheric conditions drawing heat from the Timor Sea.
Temperatures are predicted to reach between 46C and 47C in at least two states, with other regions experiencing highs in the low to mid-40s. These conditions are being described as severe heatwave conditions, potentially nearing November records in some central areas. Warnings are being issued for widespread areas, affecting inland South Australia, Queensland, NSW, Victoria, and Tasmania.
