LIVE: Severe weather warning for the Hunter and Newcastle
A coastal low has crossed the Hunter overnight. We are tracking road closures, transport, schools and power outages through the day.
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Newcastle Interchange services resume
NSW TrainLink confirms Hunter Line services between Newcastle Interchange and Maitland have resumed at reduced frequency. Expect delays of 20 to 30 minutes.
Stockton ferry suspended until further notice
Transport for NSW has suspended the Stockton ferry due to harbour swell. Replacement buses are running from Queens Wharf to Stockton via the Stockton Bridge.
Power restored to 4,200 Lake Macquarie homes
Ausgrid says crews have restored power to most of Belmont, Swansea and Caves Beach. Around 1,800 homes around Toronto remain off the grid.
Pacific Highway reopens at Hexham
Transport for NSW has reopened both directions of the Pacific Highway at Hexham after overnight flooding receded. Heavy vehicles are being prioritised through the bridge.
Department of Education: 14 Hunter schools closed today
The Department has confirmed 14 public schools across the Hunter will not open today, including campuses at Maitland, Raymond Terrace and Cessnock. Full list is on the Department website.
Bureau upgrades warning to severe
The Bureau of Meteorology has upgraded its weather warning to severe for the Hunter and Mid North Coast. Damaging winds and heavy rain are forecast to continue until midday.
Live coverage begins
Good morning. We're opening this live blog as a coastal low crosses the Hunter. We'll update through the morning as transport, schools and emergency services confirm impacts.