Two Aussie states brace for severe thunderstorms

Two Aussie states are preparing to be battered by severe thunderstorms this afternoon, with warnings of damaging winds, large hail and "copious lightning".

Parts of Queensland and NSW are both bracing for wild weather with up to 50mm of rain expected over the next 36 hours for parts of eastern Australia.

Coastal areas are forecast to be the worst hit, particularly in the NSW Hunter and Northern Rivers and south-east Queensland from Noosa up to Rockhampton.

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The storms will also spread inland to Queensland's Central Highlands and the North West Slopes and Plains in NSW.

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A strong wind warning has also been issued for the eastern parts of NSW and QLD.

The storms will be triggered by a low pressure trough mixing with moisture over eastern Australia, while an upper-level trough above the eastern part of the country will enhance wind speed and direction.

Residents are advised to brace for large hail, lightning, damaging winds and significant showers.