Residents of Geelong were left stunned on Tuesday afternoon when a freak hailstorm transformed the city into a winter wonderland in the middle of spring, causing significant damage and flash flooding across the region.
Sudden Icy Onslaught
The Bureau of Meteorology had issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of central Victoria, but few expected the intensity of what was to come. Just after 4pm on Tuesday, the sky darkened dramatically before unleashing a barrage of hail that ranged from marble to golf ball-sized chunks of ice.
Social media quickly flooded with images and videos showing white-covered streets, gardens buried under ice, and vehicles taking a pounding from the frozen projectiles. The unusual weather event saw hail accumulating several centimetres deep in some suburbs, creating surreal scenes more reminiscent of mid-winter than spring.
Widespread Damage and Disruption
The violent hailstorm left a trail of destruction across Geelong. Numerous vehicles sustained significant damage with dented roofs and bonnets, while properties suffered broken skylights and damaged outdoor settings. The sheer volume of hail combined with heavy rainfall caused rapid flash flooding in low-lying areas.
Emergency services received multiple calls for assistance as the storm peaked. The State Emergency Service advised residents to move their vehicles under cover and away from trees, while also recommending people stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the weather.
Cleanup and Recovery Efforts
As the storm subsided, residents emerged to assess the damage and begin the massive cleanup operation. The sound of shovels scraping ice from driveways and pathways echoed through suburbs as communities worked together to clear the unprecedented accumulation.
Local businesses reported minor flooding issues, while some sporting facilities were left underwater. The unexpected weather event served as a stark reminder of Victoria's volatile spring conditions and the importance of heeding severe weather warnings when issued.
Meteorologists confirmed this was one of the most significant hailstorms to hit the Geelong region in recent years, with the combination of large hail stones and intense rainfall creating dangerous conditions across the city.
