Severe thunderstorm warning issued for NSW Mid North Coast, Hunter and surrounds

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of New South Wales this afternoon.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns the storm is likely to bring destructive winds, heavy rain that may cause flash flooding and large hailstones.

Areas affected will include the Mid North Coast, Hunter, Northern Tablelands, Central Tablelands, North West Slopes and Plains and Central West Slopes and Plains.

Communities likely to be affected include Kempsey, Taree, Scone, Mudgee, Coonabarabran and Gulgong.