A wild storm dumped up to 40mm of rain across Moree in less than 20 minutes late Tuesday, with a storage facility on Dover Street suffering extensive damage from a suspected lightning strike.

Bricks and window frames in the upper level of the double storey brick structure were blown onto the footpath and street.

No-one was injured during the suspected lightning strike.

Across town, trees and limbs were brought down in residential yards, as well as parks and gardens, with a clean-up getting underway at Moree golf course today.

The storm also caused multiple power outages in Moree and across the shire, with some residents and businesses still without power early Wednesday.

To the north and north-west, parts of Mungindi, Weemelah, Garah and Ashley were still without power early Wednesday.

Power was partly restored to Pallamallawa, Biniguy and parts of Terry Hie Hie overnight.

Further west, hail the “size of golf-balls” were reported at Lightning Ridge.

Moree’s NSW SES unit volunteers were kept busy, with multiple calls for assistance throughout the evening.

More rain and storms are forecast for the Moree region today, with up to 20mm expected.

Similar activity – but less rain – is expected Friday and Saturday.

This storage facility on Dover Street suffered major damage from a suspected lightning strike.

Drops in temperature across much of New South Wales at the weekend will offer some consolation, said the Bureau of Meteorology’s Sarah Scully.

“We’ve got a cold and gusty cold front that will bring showers and storms, setting us up for a really chilly weekend,” she said.

For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES on 132 500.

In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

View full warning: Hazard Watch

Download the Hazards Near Me App and set up ‘Watch Zones’ to receive warnings in real time: Hazards Near Me

The State Emergency Service advises people to be prepared:

Move your car under cover or away from trees;

Secure or put away loose items around your 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;

Keep clear of creeks and storm drains;

Don’t walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water;

If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue;

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.