The Bureau of Meteorology has renewed its severe weather warning as waves exceeding five metres will continue throughout the day, before easing during Sunday.

Conditions are expected to be particularly dangerous along south-facing beaches.

Read more: Surfers tackle heavy waves as storm whips up swell

Anthony Turner, from Surf Life Saving Illawarra, said the region was experiencing powerful large swell, with strong rip currents and movement of water.

Mr Turner said the recent heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions could lead to landslips at headlands and beaches.

Wollongong City Council has asked people to stay away from rock platforms and headlands over the coming weeks.

"The huge seas, swells and ongoing weather conditions mean it's just not safe to be on a rock platform or at a headland edge," the council wrote on social media.

"Our staff have reported rockfalls and ground movement at headland locations in Thirroul, Austinmer, Wombarra and Coalcliff."

At Thirroul, the high tide of 1.6 metres overnight brought surging waves up to the promenade.

"It was spectacular watching it last night," Mr Turner said.

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Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club was sandbagged as a precaution, but was not affected - however, Mr Turner said a higher tide might have had a different outcome.

There is also a gale warning for marine winds along the Illawarra coast for Saturday and a strong wind warning for Sunday.

People should monitor the BOM and BeachSafe websites for further information.

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