SEVERE storms lashed much of the north-west and northern tablelands late Friday, with widespread hail and damage reported as well as lengthy power outages affecting nearly 4000 homes and businesses.

Severe thunderstorms also produced widespread rain at Armidale, Inverell, Tingha, Bundarra, Warialda, Barraba, Ashford, Bendemeer and Bingara.

Moree township missed most of it, with heavy falls recorded nearby, including hail at Gurley, severe storms at Ashley and Garah, and extended power outages at Yarraman and Terry Hie Hie.

Power was restored at Yarraman, where nearly 50 homes were affected, at around 2pm Saturday.

Essential Energy reported significant storms swept through the north-west region, with about 3800 homes and businesses impacted by unplanned power outages.

Affected areas included Upper Manilla, Barraba, Moree, Inverell, Yetman, North Star and surrounding areas and villages.

Safety equipment was operated, isolating power supply to keep the community safe until crews could investigate.

Crews were dispatched immediately and commenced patrolling the network in difficult weather conditions.

Patrolling of the network is required due to a total fire ban restriction in place.

More than 2500 homes and businesses were without power overnight.

At first light Saturday, crews continued to patrol the network and commenced repairs to multiple faults caused by lightning strikes and strong winds across a widespread area.

Multiple power poles and supporting infrastructure needed replacing.

At 2pm Saturday, there were about 400 customers without supply, scattered across the region, as staff continue to repair the network.

An estimated time of restoration for these customers will be posted on Essential Energy’s website at www.essentialenergy.com.au/outages

Boggabri suffered major damage, with hail “the size of golf balls” and winds of up to 120kph bringing down trees and causing power outages.

There are reports of roofs being lost and structural damage to buildings, with Narrabri Shire Council staff working to clear fallen trees from roadways.

The Boggabri Memorial Pool complex was closed due to storm damage, and remained closed on Saturday “until further notice”.

Boggabri SES had multiple crews attending storm damage repairs as well as a road accident out of town.

The SES advises people should be storm alert:

Move cars under cover or away from trees;

Secure or put away loose items around the house, yard and balcony;

Keep at least eight metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences;

Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid (131 388), Endeavour Energy (131 003), Essential Energy (132 080) or Evoenergy (131 093) as shown on your power bill;

Trees that have been damaged by fire are likely to be more unstable and more likely to fall;

Unplug computers and appliances;

Avoid using the phone during the storm;

Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well; and

Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.

NSW SES Commissioner, Mike Wassing, said holiday-makers and travellers during the school holiday period need to be aware of weather conditions, have an emergency plan and know where to find information during an emergency.

“Storms can occur year-round, but the risk is higher during the summer months. We have already seen in recent weeks the destruction that storms can cause across NSW, including flash flooding and flood rescues,” Mr Wassing said.

“Storm season occurs from October to March each year and increases the likelihood of strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding, which can damage homes, cars, and put lives at risk.”

Commissioner Wassing urged travellers to download the Hazards Near Me app and set up watch zones for the locations they’re travelling to.

“It is just as important to be prepared and have a plan while on holidays,” he said.

“You can set up watch zones very easily and be warned of any severe weather or flooding impacts. You should also check Live Traffic before driving to ensure you know the roads are open and passable.

“If you come across a flooded road, please do not place yourself and your family at risk. Turn around and find an alternative route. Never drive through flood waters.”

Mr Wassing said NSW SES volunteers right across the state remained ready to help if needed.

“Our team of 11,000-plus volunteers are ready to assist, but we ask the community to make their lives easier this summer period by being prepared,” he said.

For assistance during floods, storm and tsunami call the NSW SES on 132 500, or for life threatening situations contact Triple Zero (000).