A freak hailstorm has ripped through at least two Riverland towns leaving a path of destruction and potentially costing grape growers dearly.

The storm reached Loxton with force around 4.30pm, bringing with it hailstones ranging up to two-thirds the size of a golf ball, rain and powerful winds.

Thousands of residents in Waikerie – which was also hit by the storm – and Loxton, plus surrounding towns, lost power immediately.

Anecdotal reports have been received of wind damage in Waikerie, particularly to homes and businesses on the Sturt Highway near Viewpoint Café.

SA Power Networks has warned power may not be restored until late tonight and the early hours of tomorrow morning.

The Murray Pioneer has already received reports of localised flooding in Loxton, with several houses also being flooded internally as a result of the storm.

Emergency services are currently out across both centres, and residents are surveying the damage.

The hailstorm comes at the worst possible time for many of the region’s grape growers, potentially damaging crops ahead of the 2022 vintage.

For updates on power outages, visit http://bit.ly/OutageFinder.

Locals are reminded to stay 10m clear of fallen powerlines and call 13 13 66.