Update: Severe thunderstorms in the warning area have eased.
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Further severe thunderstorms are still possible.
The next warning is due to be issued by 7.45pm.
6.15pm: The Bureau of Meteorology warns that severe thunderstorms are forecast to hit Wollongong, Bulli and Dapto by 6.35pm and Minnamurra, Shellharbour and Port Kembla by 7.05pm.
Heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding and accumulation of hailstones are likely.
The BoM recorded 44mm of rain in 30 minutes to 5.52pm at Bankstown.
The BoM issued the warning at 6.05pm, after severe thunderstorms were detected on Sydney weather radars.
These thunderstorms are moving towards the east to south-east.
The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
- Move your car under cover.
- 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 (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.
The next warning is due to be issued by 7.05pm.
Earlier: A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of the Illawarra on Friday afternoon, with hail already reported in some areas.
The Bureau of Meteorology says severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding over the next several hours.
Small hail accumulation is also a risk, the bureau said in its 2.09pm-issued storm alert.
The warning also covers parts of the Sydney Metropolitan and Central Tablelands forecast districts.
Locations which may be affected include Wollongong, Bowral, Campbelltown, Katoomba, Albion Park and Jenolan Caves.
Hail was affecting traffic on the M1 Princes Motorway in the Helensburgh area about 2pm.
The Princes Highway near Waterfall was also covered in an accumulation of small hail.
What’s the weather like at your place? Got a picture of the hail? Let us know via our Facebook page.