Apart from food, weather and sunsets would have to be some of the most often-shared images on social media.

A colourful sunset of pinks and oranges will attract as many likes as an image of spring’s first bloom of flowers.

But social media lit up with different images of nature at its finest at the weekend.

A freak storm hit Lake Albert on Saturday afternoon, forcing the cancellation of the Riverina Truck Show and Kids Convoy.

It’s a pity because until that point, the event was shaping up to be a big success.

But then those who had followed the convoy through Wagga’s streets and wanted a family day out were hit with the storm at Lake Albert.

It only last a minute or so but it caused panic and thousands of dollars of damage.

Falling trees hit cars, an inflatable jumping castle was thrown with children still inside, dust and wind whipped at the bodies of those trying to escape to cover.

It was described as a miniature hurricane and no one saw it coming.

Saturday was an otherwise sunny, unseasonably warm spring day, which showed no signs of turning so quickly.

One minute, we are commenting on how lovely the day was and how excited we were that summer was arriving early.

And the next we are ducking for cover because the elements most certainly turned on us.

There were storm warnings for other parts of the Riverina but Wagga had no clue what was in store for it.

The levels of destruction were nothing compared to cyclones and hurricanes overseas that flatten or flood entire towns and cities.

But it was an idea of how quickly the weather can leave a devastating effect – and just how much this community can band together when needed.

It’s also a reminder that while we should admire Mother Nature, we should also prepare for the effects it can have on homes and properties, especially in the lead-up to fire season.

State Emergency Services personnel received more than 40 calls from this one incident that last about 60 seconds.

To minimise their call-outs in much bigger or longer storms this spring, ensure your property is storm ready.