It left a trail of destruction which triggered national attention. About 100 homes were damaged when a tornado ripped through part of Stalybridge just before midnight on December 27th.
As winds reached speeds of up to 160 mph, gable ends collapsed, roof tiles flew off like missiles, trees snapped, and cars were damaged by falling debris.
But was it a one-off phenomenon or a sign of things to come? Witnesses recounted trees being toppled 'like dominoes'. One woman described the storm as a 'whirlwind of madness'.
Miraculously no-one was hurt. Tamside council said 89 dangerous building act notices had been been issued. More than 30 families were unable to return to their homes until repairs were completed and their properties deemed safe. Try MEN Premium now with our amazing New Year offer...