2011-03-01 11:49

CANBERRA - More than 20,000 residents in Perth of Western Australia remain without power, after a severe thunderstorm tore off roofs and brought down powerlines and trees.

Australia Associated Press reported that the brief but fierce storm hit Perth's north and east regions about 3:15pm (WST) on Monday, leaving about 55,000 residents in Swan Valley and Perth Hills without power.

According to a Western Power spokesman, repair crews worked through the night to restore power to about 34,000 properties, and it was hoped a further 21,000 would have supplies restored by Tuesday night.

Heavy rain caused localized flooding of roads and homes, and lightning sparked several grass fire.

Fire and Emergency Services Authority, the State Emergency Service (SES) said on Monday they have answered more than 170 calls for help, including about 20 buildings where roofs had been completely or partially torn off.

A teenage girl was taken to hospital with minor injuries after a tree branch fell on her.

Extra SES crews arrived in the storm-hit region on Tuesday morning to assist in the clean-up.