HEAVY rain was reported in some areas of Tamworth and the surrounding district  with a severe thunderstorm issued  this evening.

Kootingal residents reported heavy rain in their part of the district about 7pm with small hailstones also reported.

Heavy  rain reached Tamworth by 7.30pm.

The bureau issued a warning this evening saying severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours in Armidale, Tamworth and Gunnedah.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:

 * Move your car under cover or away from trees.

 * Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony. 

* Keep clear of fallen power lines. 

* 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. 

For the latest weather updates and warnings visit www.bom.gov.au