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Writer's pictureLynna Tan

South Australia’s Arno Bay, Adelaide and Glenelg lashed by winter hailstorm

Updated: Oct 10

South Australians from Adelaide to Glenelg and out to Morphetville encountered a rare and devastating hailstorm last night.


purple lightning australia

Introduction

Rebuild Relief and ClaimsCo understand that a hailstorm has impacted the residents of South Australia. Hailstorms are a natural occurrence in many parts of Australia, and they can cause varying degrees of damage to properties, particularly roofs. The recent large hail that swept through South Australia, affecting areas like Arno Bay and parts of Adelaide, serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with such weather events. In this blog, we'll explore the impacts of hailstorms on roofs, what homeowners should look out for, and the importance of addressing damage promptly.


The South Australian Hailstorm: What Happened?

On the night of Thursday 15th August, a significant hailstorm hit the town of Arno Bay in South Australia. Large hailstones, coupled with strong winds, created conditions ripe for roof damage.


In Adelaide, areas such as Glenelg and Morphetville experienced hail up to 1cm in diameter. Data suggests that some localised areas in southern Adelaide may have seen hailstones just reaching 2cm. While these sizes might seem small, they can still cause minor damage, especially when combined with gusts of up to 80km/h, as was recorded during the storm.


The heat map below, taken from Weather Watch, illustrates the intensity of the hailstorm as it moved from Arno Bay across to Adelaide.

heat map of Adelaide hail storm

Source: Weatherwatch

hailstones on palm of the hand

Source: Arno Bay, South Australia, WeatherWatch


A Look Back: Adelaide’s Most Significant Hailstorm

To understand the potential severity of hailstorms, it's worth reflecting on one of the most damaging hail events in Adelaide’s history. On 22 January 1991, at 7:00 pm, a devastating hailstorm struck the city. At the time, it was one of the most severe storms on record, with hailstones reaching an enormous 10 centimetres in diameter (Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience)


According to Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience, the storm caused extensive damage to motor vehicles, roof tiles, and windows, leading to significant water damage in many homes. The Insurance Council of Australia estimated the damage at $30 million in 1991, which, when adjusted for inflation, amounted to a normalised cost of $112 million by 2011.


This historical event underscores the importance of being prepared for hailstorms and taking swift action to assess and repair any damage.


Potential Roof Damage from Hailstorms

Hailstorms, even those with smaller hailstones, can lead to significant roof damage. The impact of hailstones can cause:


  • Shingle Bruising: Hail can dent or bruise shingles, leading to compromised roof integrity. Over time, these bruises can turn into leaks.

  • Cracks and Holes: Larger hailstones or those propelled by high winds can crack or puncture roofing materials, leading to immediate or delayed water ingress.

  • Gutter Damage: Hail can dent gutters and downspouts, which can affect water drainage and lead to water pooling around your property.


Assessing Roof Damage After a Hailstorm

After a hailstorm, it's crucial to assess your roof for any potential damage. Here are some steps homeowners in South Australia should consider:


  1. Visual Inspection: Start with a ground-level inspection of your roof. Look for any visible signs of damage such as missing shingles, dents, or debris. Organise for a professional to come out and get on your roof to look for damage. 

  2. Check the Gutters: Inspect your gutters for any dents or blockages caused by hail. Look for granules that may have washed down from the roof.

  3. Look for Water Damage: Inspect your attic and ceilings for signs of water infiltration, such as stains or dampness. This could indicate a roof leak caused by hail damage.

  4. Document the Damage: Take photos of any damage you find. This will be important if you need to file a hail claims service.


What Are Your Options?

If your roof has sustained damage from the recent hailstorm, it’s important to understand your options for roof restoration and roof replacement:


  • Roof Restoration: This involves repairing and revitalising your existing roof. It’s a cost-effective solution for roofs that have suffered minor to moderate damage. Restoration can extend the life of your roof and prevent further issues.

  • Roof Replacement: In cases where the damage is extensive, or your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacement may be the best option. This ensures your home is fully protected against future storms, and if you have a home and contents insurance, it is likely that you will be able to get your roof replaced under your policy.


Conclusion

Hailstorms like the one that recently impacted South Australia can cause significant damage to roofs, even if the hailstones are relatively small. It's important for homeowners to stay vigilant, assess their roofs after such events, and consider professional help if damage is suspected. Whether through roof restoration or roof replacement, addressing hail damage promptly is key to maintaining the safety and integrity of your home.


For more information on hail damage and how to protect your roof, stay tuned to our blog for the latest updates and tips.


This blog is currently being updated to provide the most accurate and comprehensive information. Please check back soon for additional details.


Sources:

Weather Watch. (n.d.). Hail Tracker. Retrieved from 16/08/2024 https://hailtracker.weatherwatch.net.au/


Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience. (n.d.). Storm: Adelaide, South Australia 1991. Retrieved from 16/08/2024 https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/resources/storm-adelaide-south-australia-1991/


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