News outlets report 12 adults and five babies were trapped when the maternity ward roof collapsed, however police say all are now safely out

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

The roof of a maternity ward at Lismore Base hospital has collapsed, briefly trapping patients, including children, inside.

The roof collapsed shortly after 4.20pm on Sunday. It is believed scaffolding fell onto the roof of the building in Uralba Street, Lismore, causing the collapse.

The northern New South Wales town was hit by a severe hail storm shortly before the collapse.

There are reports 12 women and five babies were trapped inside.

A spokeswoman for NSW police said people had been trapped inside the building “for a short time”.

“However all persons are now out of the ward and accounted for.”

There were no reports of serious injury.