Schools, businesses and homes have sustained damage today as strong winds lashed large parts of the NSW Illawarra and South Coast, Snowy Mountains, Blue Mountains, Sydney Metro and parts of the Central Coast and Hunter.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) have responded to 598 incidents since midnight.
Damaging winds topped 115 km/h at Bellambi. In the Illawarra more than 380 incidents have been received.
NSW SES Acting Assistant Commissioner Allison Flaxman said teams have been kept busy with a large number of fallen trees and powerlines.
“In the Illawarra, NSW SES crews have been assisting with the clean up at several schools, medical facilities and properties which have seen damage to roofs, fencing and sheds.
Assistant Commissioner Flaxman said it was important people keep clear of damaged buildings and fallen trees.
“Until the wind eases, we will see items being blown around as projectiles which could cause serious injury to people and further damage to property.
“Follow the warnings of emergency service personnel and please adhere to any exclusion barriers that may be in place."
The severe weather is expected to continue throughout the remainder of the day, before easing later this evening.
Incidents by zone: