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Bureau of Meteorology severe thunderstorm warning 11.35am update:
The Bureau of Meteorology warned at 11:35 am, severe thunderstorms were detected on weather radar near Maitland, Raymond Terrace and waters off Port Stephens. They are forecast to affect Nelson Bay, Kurri Kurri and Lemon Tree Passage by 12:05 pm and Cessnock, Hexham and Williamtown by 12:35 pm.
Heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding is likely across the warning area. It is possible that low-lying parts of Newcastle may be significantly impacted from the early afternoon.
In the hour to 9:45am Tocal recorded very intense rainfall of 112mm.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* 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.
If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
Bureau of Meterology weather 11.30am update:
Severe weather warning for damaging and locally destructive winds, damaging winds, heavy rainfall and damaging surf for people in the Hunter.
An intense low pressure system near the boundary of the Hunter and Mid North Coast districts is expected to move gradually southwards later today, staying close to the coast as it does.
At 11am a line of dangerous thunderstorms was occurring from about Nelson Bay to Maitland in the Hunter Valley causing localised very intense rainfall.
Destructive winds averaging 90 to 100 km/h with peak gusts up to 135 km/h are forecast for coastal parts of the Hunter forecast district (including the Central Coast) today.
Heavy rainfall is likely in the Hunter district.
Very heavy surf, which may lead to localised damage and coastal erosion is forecast for the Hunter forecast district. Beach conditions in these areas are dangerous and people should stay well away from the surf and surf exposed areas.
Wind gusts to date include: 120 km/h at Nobby's Head, and 110 km/h at Williamtown.
Rainfall totals from 9am Monday to 9am Tuesday include: 186 mm at Wallsend.
Lake Macqaurie council warning
All waste and recycling collections in Lake Macquarie area have been postponed for 24 hours.
All council facilities - libraries, beaches, swim centres, art gallery and Awaba Waste Management facility - are closed.
Council administration building has no power or phone service and all staff have been sent home.
There are trees blocking roads across the city, avoid driving if possible.
Council has closed Kallaroo Road, Redhead; Weir Road, Barnsley and George Booth Drive between Seahampton and Mount Sugarloaf.
Crews are out working with SES, clearing trees on council land and roads.
Council advises to keep up to date with warnings via Emergency Services on social media.
Council will re-assess its warnings after 3pm and in the morning.
Newcastle council warning:
All waste and recycling collections in the Newcastle area have been postponed for 24 hours.
Council facilities closed Summerhill Waste Management Centre, beaches are closed, Beresfield Child Care Centre, Newcastle Museum, Newcastle Art Gallery.
The city library is open - ground floor only while all other branch libraries are closed.
There are plenty of road closures across the city due to fallen trees, we advise you to stay off the roads
Important emergency information:
For damage to homes - phone SES 132 500.
For life threatening emergencies - phone 000.