The Bureau of Meteorology has alerted parts of New South Wales to brace for severe thunderstorms, predicting conditions that could bring damaging winds, substantial hail, and intense rainfall.

This alert covers areas such as the Mid North Coast, Northern Tablelands, along with sections of the Northern Rivers, North West Slopes and Plains, and Central West Slopes and Plains forecast districts.

The anticipated heavy rains raise concerns about potential flash floods in the warned regions over the coming hours. Cities like Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Armidale, Moree, Tenterfield, and Narrabri are expected to experience significant weather impacts.

Residents in Tamworth have likened the fierce winds to a mini tornado, as the gusts uprooted trees and entangled roofing materials in power lines.

Meanwhile, the Hunter region’s Muswellbrook recorded wind speeds reaching up to 100 km/h.

Tamworth Airport recorded winds as powerful as 124km/h.

The Bureau of Meteorology has said that a warm and humid airmass mixed with a trough and west to south-westerly change has resulted in the thunderstorm warnings for this afternoon and evening.

Locals are being urged to stay vigilant and monitor conditions.