A flood alert has been issued for the coast around the Isle of Wight, with the Environment Agency warning that high tides in the early hours of tomorrow (Friday) could lead to minor flooding in some coastal areas.
Flooding is possible for 1 hour either side of the morning high tide at 03:15, with elevated water levels caused by Storm Goretti. The storm is increasing tide table values by 0.8 metres, resulting in a total forecast tide of 4.86 metres Chart Datum (2.27 mAOD) at Cowes, alongside strong north-westerly winds reaching Force 8.
The Environment Agency warns of very minor flooding impacts, which may affect:
- Sea front roads, esplanades and car parks around the Island
- Medina Road and the Cowes Floating Bridge, due to high water on slipways
- Albany Road in East Cowes, where seawater may be forced up through drains
A second high tide at 15:30 on Friday is expected to be 86cm lower (1.41 mAOD), and no further flood impacts are currently forecast.
Residents in affected areas are advised to consider activating any flood protection products and stay alert to updates.
The Environment Agency says it is closely monitoring the situation. A further update is expected by 12:00 on Friday (9th January) or earlier if conditions change.
