Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Narooma and Moruya Heads. 

The State Emergency Service advises people should move their 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; 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. 

EARLIER: Winds gusting to 90kmh are forecast for Thursday afternoon, with a severe weather warning issued for the Illawara.

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned "damaging" and "gale-force" winds around 65kmh will hit the region in the afternoon, with the possibility of much stronger gusts. 

"Localised gale-force southwest winds are considered a possibility for the Illawarra district as a cold front crosses the region this afternoon," the BOM warning reads.

"Localised damaging winds, averaging around 65 km/h with gusts of 90 km/h, are possible for the Illawarra forecast district this afternoon."

The State Emergency Service advises people should move vehicles under cover or away from trees; secure or put away loose items around the house, yard and balcony; and keep clear of fallen power lines.

For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.