Pennsylvania Insurance Department Working on Hail Storm Assistance

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department is taking steps to help people affected by a hail storm that brought widespread damage to the eastern part of the state.

The agency said Friday that it will allow out-of-state appraisers to speed property damage reviews and appraisals and expedite claims processing and payments.

Insurance Commissioner Mike Consedine urges Pennsylvanians in the affected areas to review their home and car insurance policies and contact their insurance carrier.

The National Weather Service said hail – some reportedly the size of tennis balls – fell across parts of eastern Pennsylvania on Thursday night, cracking car windshields, breaking windows and damaging siding.

Emergency management officials in Berks and Montour counties said they’ve received a flood of calls about damage but no reports of serious injuries.