Freak storm hits north-east

A freak storm hit the north-east of England today, causingg up to five inches of hail, torrential rain, lightning and even a tornado.

A freak storm hit the north-east of England today, causingg up to five inches of hail, torrential rain, lightning and even a tornado.

The storm affected the area between York and Hull, flooding at least 60 properties, forcing businesses to close and disrupting rail services after York railway station was hit by lightning four times within a few minutes.

A tornado was also reported off the Humber Estuary, but the coastguard said it did not cause any casualties although it sucked water up to form a spectacular water spout.

Humberside Fire Service received more than 80 calls from the village of Hedon, to the east of Hull, which was particularly badly affected by the hour-long storm.

Sub fire officer Ian Daddy said: ÒItÿs weird. Thereÿs snow in some parts of the village and flooding in other parts.