Flood alerts have been issued across parts of Somerset, highlighting increased flood risks due to recent heavy rainfall combined with high tidal activity. Coastal communities are being urged to stay vigilant over the next 24 hours as multiple tidal surges threaten low-lying areas.
The Environment Agency (EA) has released the first alert for the coastal area around Clevedon, extending past Tickenham. Residents should be particularly alert this evening, Tuesday, May 27, as high tide is predicted at 7:15 pm. Flooding could occur between 5:15 pm and 9:15 pm, with the zone of concern stretching from Gullhouse Point to Marine Parade. Peak tide levels at Avonmouth are forecast to reach 7.14 meters above ordnance datum (mAODN), accompanied by strong westerly winds at force seven. Despite these conditions, property flooding is not expected.
Following this, a second flood alert is in place for the Porlock Weir area tomorrow morning. High tide is expected at 7:15 am, bringing the potential for flooding on roads and low-lying land between Gore Point and Hurlstone Point. The tidal peak at Hinkley is anticipated at 6.11 mAODN with westerly winds at force six. As with the earlier alert, no property flooding is expected, but caution is advised for anyone near the coast.
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In addition to these alerts, a third warning has been issued for the Severn Estuary at Severn Beach, north of Somerset. Here, a significant tidal surge is predicted to cause overtopping and potential onshore flooding. The high tide is also at 7:15 pm this evening with an expected level of 7.13 mAOD and force seven westerly winds. Areas at risk include New Passage and Pilning.
The Environment Agency is actively monitoring conditions, checking flood defenses, and closing flood gates where necessary. They remind the public to exercise caution on beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths, and roads due to the danger posed by large waves and sea spray.
After the scheduled high tides, weather conditions are expected to become more settled, reducing the risk of flooding. However, residents and visitors should remain alert and heed any further updates from local authorities.