Stay away from the coast

The Environment Agency is urging people to stay away from exposed coastal areas and to prepare for severe weather bringing the risk of high waves and possible flooding.

Severe gale force winds up to 80mph are forecast to coincide with high spring tides and a period of low pressure, which could cause higher sea levels along parts of the south coast throughout Monday.

The Environment Agency is urging people to check for coastal flood warnings via the Environment Agency web site, www.environment-agency.gov.uk or by contacting Floodline on 08459 88 1188.

Environment Agency Regional Strategy Manager, Simon Hughes said:

"We are expecting a potent cocktail of strong winds, wave action and high tides from last night until Wednesday. These could result in higher sea levels, and flooding in some places.

"Because we have had a settled period of weather recently, our coastal flood defences are in good condition and should be able to withstand a bit of a battering. And because of the height of the tides and the intensity of the winds, we expect to see some areas where waves are crashing over the beach and coastal roads and some properties may be flooded.

"We understand that people are fascinated by the sea but at times like this we urge them not to go and watch the high waves '“ it can be extremely dangerous and only takes a few seconds for someone to be knocked off their feet, and swept into the water."

The Met Office and Environment Agency are continually monitoring the forecast.

If you have any concerns at all over the risk of flooding, or what to do to prepare, call Floodline on 08459 88 1188 for the latest flood warnings in their area and information