THE HUNTER is not out of the woods yet with damaging winds and isolated heavy rain hanging around the region for the next 24 to 48 hours.
Northern Zone NSW SES crews were called to 24 jobs across the area from midnight on Thursday, mostly due to fallen trees, gutter damage and leaky roofs.
NSW SES spokesman Andrew Edmunds said there are still warnings in place for damaging winds and hazardous surf, which could lead to coastal erosion.
"There is also the potential for heavy rain but that is most likely going to be further north," he said.
"But there still could be some damaging wind and isolated heavy rain as well in the next 24 to 48 hours."
Mr Edmunds said it is still not too late for Novocastrians to prepare their homes for storms.
"People can secure loose items around their homes, avoid parking near trees and power lines and put away those odds and ends around the house so they don't become projectiles," he said.
"In terms of once the strong winds do start to hit, the best thing people can do is stay indoors and stay away from trees so they're not dangerous."
Conditions are expected to ease from Sunday into Monday with warmer weather on the way from Tuesday.
Mr Edmunds said those who are travelling for school holidays should keep up to date with the Hazards Near Me App and Live Traffic NSW.
"People might be going from your area where it's nice into areas where it's not so nice, so they should make sure they stay across the warnings and information and avoid driving through flooded roads," he said.
Saturday's forecast suggests a medium chance of showers with winds southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h turning easterly 15 to 20 km/h in the evening.
Anyone who needs help can call NSW SES on 132 500.
