In a six-minute timeframe, from 5.15pm, strong winds and hail not only took out a few sheds, but caused extensive damage to a house on Mayne Street.

A large branch also collapsed across powerlines in Elizabeth Street.

The old tree fell directly on the home and, Murrurundi SES Unit Controller Bob Standen said, the resident was lucky to “escape serious injury”.

“There was only a few millimetres of rain, however it was the strength of the gusts, which caused the problem,” he said.

“The tree was four metres from the house, but it copped the entire trunk.

“It crushed the ceiling, so it’s a wonder the woman wasn’t hurt.

“As expected, she’s very upset by the incident.

“In fact, it’s the biggest tree I’ve ever seen on a house.

“We were there until 9.30pm, and we’ve removed most of the tree off the premises.

“The power’s been disconnected, as the home is now condemned.”

Mr Standen took time to praise the Unit’s members, who total 16 in the team.

“We have a young crew in Murrurundi – and about seven or eight assisted last night.

“Full credit goes to them for helping out so quickly.”

Mr Standen said the clean-up would continue on Friday.