Large surf is due to develop along the New South Wales coast this weekend, bringing hazardous conditions. A strong front is looking to move over southeastern parts of the nation tomorrow before an embedded low pressure system promptly develops just off the South Coast on Friday. Strong winds circulating the low in a clockwise direction will combine with winds circulating a strong high pressure ridge in an anti-clockwise direction to steer a strong south/westerly flow over the Tasman Sea. The pressure gradient between this Tasman Low and high pressure ridge will continue to tighten throughout Friday bringing the potential for gale force winds along exposed parts of the NSW coast. Strong winds will also whip up a large southerly ground swell which is expected to batter the coast over the weekend. The Hunter coast will bear the brunt of this swell with south facing beaches potentially seeing swell upwards of 12 foot. With the mention of a looming swell, a nervous buzz of excitement will often ripple through the surfing community. Unfortunately, southwesterly winds will be so strong that only the protected southern corners will offer any quality. Winds will also be lighter in the morning so if you are an experienced surfer get out there early. There will be a lot of water moving around so coastal erosion and flash rips will also become a risk. The swell should begin to subside throughout Sunday before becoming much more manageable next week. Coastal activities such as boating and rock fishing should best be postponed for the time being.