Valley escapes hail downpours - The Daily Examiner

THE Clarence Valley has emerged virtually unscathed from the recent bout of thunderstorms but our SES volunteers are still busy helping others.

Clarence Nambucca State Emergency Service region controller Caroline Ortel said the storms had mainly caused damage in Coffs Harbour and surrounds.

"The Clarence Valley area has been very quiet ... we've had a few small jobs out at Yamba but nothing significant," she said.

Ms Ortel said Clarence Valley SES crews had been assisting with incidents in our neighbouring region.

"We've had more than a week of thunderstorms and our volunteers have made an enormous effort," she said. "They've been there when their community needs them, even though they have their own homes to look after as well."

Ms Ortel said the high number of storms producing hail meant additional SES personnel had arrived to provide assistance.

"We are in storm season but it is unusual to have so many storms over such an extensive period.

"The hail damage means it's all working on roofs.

"It requires volunteers with specialty training and special equipment."

Volunteers from as far as Kiama, Tambar Springs, Cowra and Moree have been in Coffs Harbour this week.

"Our volunteers have done an amazing job," Ms Ortel said. "Grafton crews have provided a significant contribution to the Coffs Harbour area."

Ms Ortel said the SES encouraged people to secure any loose items in their yards.

"Strong winds will pick up trampolines - either peg them in or put sandbags on them," she said.

"Anything loose in a backyard could turn into a projectile in strong winds."

View article here...