A flood alert has been issued for the Isle of Wight coast ahead of Wednesday morning’s high tide, with coastal flooding expected due to strong winds and elevated tide levels.
The Environment Agency warns that the 01:30 tide is forecast to reach 4.70 metres Chart Datum (2.11 mAOD) at Cowes – a rise of 0.59m above standard levels due to unsettled weather and Southerly Force 5 winds generating large waves.
For 1 hour either side of high water, seafront roads, esplanades and car parks may experience minor flooding across several parts of the Isle of Wight.
In Cowes, water is expected to be high up slipways, affecting Medina Road and the floating bridge. In East Cowes, sea water may be forced up through drains, creating minor issues on Albany Road.
The afternoon tide at 13:45 is forecast to be significantly lower, with no flood impacts anticipated.
Residents in vulnerable areas such as Medina Road are advised to install flood protection at least 1 hour before high tide. The tide is expected to rise to within 10cm of doorsteps in some locations.
