The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for parts of the Hunter.
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A low pressure system is tracking eastwards across NSW triggering thunderstorm activity.
It is expected to deliver severe thunderstorms, producing hailstones and damaging winds over the next several hours.
The BOM warns that, at 4.10 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Newcastle City, Belmont, Charlestown, Wallsend and the Gresford district.
These thunderstorms are moving towards the east.
They are forecast to affect Fern Bay and Stockton by 4.40 pm and Anna Bay by 5.10 pm.
Large hailstones, heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and damaging winds are likely.
Cessnock and Maitland are expected to bear the brunt across the region.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Move your car under cover or away from trees.
- Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
- Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
- Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, as shown on your power bill.
- Unplug computers and appliances.
- Avoid using the phone during the storm.
- Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
