A SEVERE thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of the Mid North Coast including Port Macquarie.
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Large hailstones, heavy rainfall and damaging wind bursts are expected to hit the region within the next few hours, the Bureau of Meteorology predicts.
But any severe storm activity should be short-lived, says Weatherzone meteorologist Guy Dixon.
Sharp burst of damaging wind of up to 90 kilometres per hour could be coupled with the risk of hail and flash flooding.
Mr Dixon said already parts of the coast just south of Port Macquarie was experiencing the brunt of the bad weather.
"Taree's had gusty winds of about 45km per hour and the rain is continuing to fall there," he said.
A combination of a high pressure ridge, he said, clashing with a weak low pressure trough is causing the turbulent conditions.
Mr Dixon predicts any thunderstorm activity should occur before lunchtime, with storm activity heading offshore soon thereafter.
Looking further ahead, it seems the region won't see clear blue skies until Tuesday or Wednesday.
"It's not going to be ideal this weekend," Mr Dixon said. "There will be a few showers around but there won't be anything torrential."
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 on 132 500.