UNSETTLED WEATHER LEADS TO FLOOD ALERT FOR THE ISLE OF WIGHT COAST

A flood alert has been issued for the Isle of Wight, with the Environment Agency predicting a higher than normal tomorrow morning (Tuesday). The late morning tide, at around 11:00, will be high due to unsettled weather with strong Westerly Force 5 winds. This will see tide tables increased by around 0.47m, totalling 4.78m at Cowes. Islanders are warning that for 1 hour either side of high water very minor impact flooding will affect some seafront roads, esplanades and car parks across the Island. Water will be high up slipways in Cowes, affecting Medina Road and the floating bridge. The tide may rise to be only 0.1m below the top of front door steps. As a precautionary measure, and if you have it, the Environment Agency recommend that flood protection is installed at Medina Road 1 hour before high tide. 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.