The Bureau of Meteorology reported heavy rain and wind gusts over the wider Hunter region with wind gaining momentum late Thursday afternoon.

The Hunter Region SES received 13 calls for assistance at Singleton, Maitland, Cliftleigh, Aberdeen, Morpeth, Merewether, Raworth, Raymond Terrace, Beresfield and Kurri.

Calls were for help for storm-related damage such as fallen trees.

There were also flood-related incidents where sand bagging was needed.

Hunter Region SES Community Engagement Coordinator Raechel Squires said Hunter members remained on standby through the night and would continue to be on standby on Friday as some rain and strong winds were forecast.

“They may also be called to do some out-of-area support work because, statewide, what is happening is pretty big,” Ms Squires said.

“Having said that our capability must be maintained at a local level before we send people away.”

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Gabrielle Woodhouse said the Hunter copped it yesterday from Newcastle through to Barrington Tops and the rain band could continue through to Friday.

“It’s widespread and heavy at times, particularly in parts of the Upper Hunter, even in Newcastle,” Ms Woodhouse said.

 “We can’t rule out thunderstorms either.”

She said humidity across the region remained at 100 per cent.

“These conditions were to be expected and are definitely a hangover from ex tropical cyclone Debbie, which is moving south and bringing that humid land mass with it.”

The Bureau of Meteorology also warned of large and dangerous surf conditions with three-metre waves reported off Sydney late yesterday.

Ms Woodhouse said these conditions would continue to develop strength as wind picked up.

“The rain will start to ease Friday as the front moves through the Hunter and onto the coast,” Ms Woodhouse said.