The winds also caused a blackout which affected 5000 residents, according to Country Energy.

The local SES volunteers, with “a couple of hundred hours” under their belts supporting fire brigades at bushfires around the region, received calls for assistance from two properties in Laurieton.

“Considering the force of the wind I think we got off lightly,” unit controller Garry Fajks said.

The sunroom of a two storey house in Castle Street came loose, damaging the house and neighbouring property as well as powerlines.

SES crews attended to secure the properties with tarps and prevented further debris damage.

A skylight dome was blown from the Laurieton Mall, landing in a carpark. Mr Fajks said the owner of the property and a local builder worked to secure the property.

The blackout at 12.30pm Thursday was caused by vegetation blowing into lines.

Country Energy’s regional manager Andrew Latta apologised to customers for the inconvenience. Crews responded immediately and power was restored by 12.45pm.

“I would like to reassure customers that in the event of a power interruption, we will respond immediately to identify the issue and work to restore power supply as quickly as possible” Mr Latta said.

Customers who experience any interruption to power supply should contact Country Energy immediately on 13 20 80.