And, in some areas such as Mitchells Flat and Elderslie, it looked as though a mini cyclone had ripped through the region.

Fallen trees blocked sections of the road, while a number of houses were also damaged.

Many residents reported power outages, too.

NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) teams from Singleton (four), Maitland and neighbouring Muswellbrook were joined on the ground by NSW Fire & Rescue and NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) crews, Singleton Council personnel and Hunter Valley Police District officers.

All up, more than 30 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to lend assistance.

“We started getting the first of our calls about 3pm,” Singleton NSW SES community engagement officer Simone Burrows said.

“Singleton, Bulga, Elderslie and Mitchells Flat appear the worst affected areas.

“The 10-minute storm [this afternoon] was when the most damage occurred.

“Then we received that big downpour soon after.

“The strong winds not only knocked trees over, but also onto people’s fences and sheds.

“Seven homes were missing their rooves, too.

“By 7pm, we’d received 37 calls.

“That’s a big number in that time frame.”

Ausgrid employees also arrived on the scene to install power again.