ENVIRONMENT AGENCY WARN OF FURTHER FLOODING IN THE NORTH WIGHT

The Environment Agency (EA) has issued a further update warning of flooding in areas of the North Wight this lunchtime (Tuesday). As previously reported by Island Echo, extreme tidal flooding hit areas across the Island – including Cowes, East Cowes, Yarmouth and Wootton. Business and homeowners were up until the early hours battling the elements as they fought back against what was described as the ‘highest recorded tide’. Despite water levels dropping considerably after around 02:00 this morning, a further warning has since been issued. Tuesday afternoon‘s tide at 12:00, is higher than normal due to unsettled weather with strong Westerly Force 6 winds. The weather increases tide table values by 0.38m, with the forecast tide is 4.83 metres Chart Datum (2.24 mAOD) at Cowes. For 1 hour either side of high water, very minor impact flooding will affect some sea front roads, esplanades and car parks across the island. Water will be high up slipways in Cowes, affecting Medina Road and the floating bridge. In East Cowes, sea water forced up through drains may cause very minor impacts to the road at Albany Road. After this tide‚ the weather becomes more settled‚ so levels will reduce and no further impacts are expected.