What damage did the Port Pirie storm cause?

The storm caused widespread damage including destroyed homes, downed trees, and power outages for thousands of residents.

How severe is the upcoming Australian heatwave?

Temperatures are expected to reach 46-47C in some states, with severe heatwave conditions predicted for multiple regions.

Was the Port Pirie storm predicted by meteorologists?

No, South Australia's Premier stated the severe storm cell was not anticipated by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Home / Weather / Australia's Freak Storm: Hail Like Snow, Winds of 119km/h

Australia's Freak Storm: Hail Like Snow, Winds of 119km/h

24 Nov, 2025

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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.

Australia's Freak Storm: Hail Like Snow, Winds of 119km/h

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.