The SES asks residents to monitor the Bureau of Meteorology website for the issuing of any severe weather warnings and/or flood watches and warnings for the Mid North Coast.

After a fine start to the week – a sunny Monday and a maximum temperature of 32 degrees – thunderstorms and showers are predicted for Tuesday afternoon, March 20.

Falls of between 40 and 50mm are predicted for Wednesday and Thursday.

For information on how you can prepare for floods and storms visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au

For information on severe weather warnings visit http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/index.shtml?ref=hdr

For emergency assistance in floods and storms call NSW SES on 132500.

Heavy rainfall is set to develop in the Hunter and Central Coast areas from Tuesday particularly around Newcastle and the Lower Hunter.

Moderate rain may fall between the Illawarra and Mid North Coast. There may be localised flash flooding and rises in rivers and streams.

The NSW SES is asking people in the Newcastle and Central Coast areas to be aware of this situation and to ensure that their properties are prepared.

Rural property owners should consider whether livestock and equipment should be relocated to higher ground as a precaution.

If you do require emergency assistance call the NSW SES on 132 500 or 000 if it is a life-threatening emergency.