Thunderstorms, hail and heavy rain predicted to hit Sydney - News.com.au

THUNDERSTORMS, hailstones and heavy rain are expected hit Sydney in the next few hours.

The change in weather could produce flash flooding and damaging winds in western Sydney suburbs including Penrith, Parramatta and Campbelltown, the Bureau of Meteorology warns.

Further west, Orange, Mudgee, Bathurst and Katoomba are also at risk.

The State Emergency Service says residents should move theirs cars under cover or away from trees and secure or put away loose items in backyards and balconies.

Thunderstorms in the Illawarra region have now eased and the bureau has cancelled its weather warning for this area.

The SES has advised that people in the area 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.

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