Islanders are being advised to avoid parking, walking or driving at exposed seafront locations today (Wednesday) with a flood alert in force for the Isle of Wight coast.
This afternoon’s tide at 14:30 is predicted to be higher than normal due to unsettled weather with strong South Westerly Force 7 winds and large waves. The weather increases the tide table values by 0.58 m.
For 1 hour either side of high water, large waves will cause spray overtopping and overwashing of defences across the exposed coast at Freshwater Bay, Sandown, Shanklin, Gurnard and Ryde. This will flood seafront esplanades, car parks and roads. However, as Cowes is largely sheltered from the waves, impacts will be more minimal.
The Environment Agency says it does not expect property flooding.
Tomorrow mornig’s tide, at 03:45, will see elevated wave heights but the overtopping affecting southern coastal frontage will be minimal.
