Severe thunderstorms are expected to hit areas of the Hunter and the mid north coast tonight.
Large hailstones, flash flooding and damaging winds were predicted overnight.
A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) for the Northern Rivers, parts of the mid north coast, the Hunter and Northern Tablelands.
Severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Mannering Park, Nords Wharf and Catherine Hill Bay at 9.55 pm.
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 clear of fallen power lines.
* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.
* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
* 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.
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