NSW Hunter region braces for severe thunderstorms, hail, flash flooding

Residents of the NSW Hunter Region including Greater Newcastle have been urged to prepare for a severe weather event as a storm bears down on the area.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Maitland and Cessnock and the Greater Newcastle area, forecasting giant hailstones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall.

"The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, at 4:20 pm, severe thunderstorms were detected on the weather radar near Cessnock and the Stroud district. These thunderstorms are moving towards the northeast to southeast," the BOM advises.

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"They are forecast to affect Maitland, Branxton and Kurri Kurri by 4:50 pm and Newcastle City, Raymond Terrace and Medowie by 5:20 pm.

"Large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding are likely."

The SES is advising people to keep their cars under cover where possible and to keep clear of creeks and storm drains.

Residents of NSW's north coast reported a deluge of hail in their yards.

READ MORE: Showers and storms continue on the east coast, with Queensland still on high alert

Residents are being advised not to drive through advancing flood waters.