Winds gusted up to 98kmh overnight as a fast-moving thunderstorm hit the Illawarra and left almost 1000 properties without power.

A severe weather warning for damaging winds was issued by the Bureau of Meteorology at 7.19pm on Wednedsay, October 8, with SES crews put on high alert.

Wind gusts were strongest in Nowra and Bellambi at 98kmh, with gusts hitting 96kmh in Albion Park and 67kmh in Kiama.

Further afield, winds hit 96kmh in High Range and 48kmh at Point Perpendicular.

The wild winds left 980 properties in Gerringong without power, with electrical lines on a telegraph pole on Sandy Wha Road left sparking.

Endeavour Energy spokesman Simon Canning said power was restored to these properties at 7am on Thursday, October 9.

More than 140 properties in Ulladulla were also left wit

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