HAILSTORM DAMAGE

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 801, 23 October 1929, Page 7

HAILSTORM DAMAGE

WRECKAGE IN HAWKE’S BAY Press Association NAPIER, Tuesday, j Central Hawke’s Bay was visited i this afternoon by the heaviest rain and hailstorm experienced for many years. The visitation followed a spell of warm and dry weather, and was startling 111 its suddenness. Considerable damage was done to business premises and residences at Waipawa, which was the part worst affected. The hail banked up and caused the drain outlets to block and flood over. Dark clouds gathered during the afternoon until suddenly, with the roll of thunder and vivid lightning flashes, the storm burst with terrific fury. The hailstones were as largfe as peas, and in an incredibly short time the streets and open spaces were covered with a thick mantle of white. When the downpour was at its height it was impossible to see across the street. Heavy and steady rain followed. The surrounding districts to the south were affected less severely. Two miles north of Waipawa borough, however, the country was dust dry. While Waipawa has been flooded the country is badly in need of rain.