Hail storm hits Alice Springs

A freak hail storm in Central Australia has transformed the red centre into a white winter wonderland.

A fleeting thunderstorm dumped a blanket of hail stones on Alice Springs yesterday afternoon.

Seven's national meterologist David Brown said the weather phenomenon is unusual, but can happen at this time of year.

"A passing thunderstorm dumped hail the size of frozen peas temporarily turning the red centre white," he said.

"A small but intense pool of very cold air in the middle atmosphere ensured the development of the hail storm."

Many took to social media to share their pictures.