As predicted Hunter temperatures were hitting 40 degrees by early afternoon.
A sea fog developed along the Newcastle coastline about 8am.
A light southerly pushing cool sea air into a wall of warmth.
Cooranbong and Williamtown were first to record 40, Maitland sweltered and Singleton soared.
The Rural Fire Service was bracing for bushfires.
Beaches were popular even if it was a hot foot shuffle over the sand.
Hunter Water was expecting a doubling of daily consumption.
A cool change is expected after midnight.
Lovely photos