Benn warns of tidal flooding risk
Thursday, 8 November 2007 12:00 AM
MPs have been warned parts of East Anglia could be hit by severe flooding over the next 48 hours.
Environment secretary Hilary Benn has told the House of Commons six severe flood warnings are in place after a tidal surge is expected in the English Channel.
The Environment Agency has issued severe flood warnings for the east coast between Winterton in Norfolk and Aldeburgh in Suffolk.
Areas at risk include the Norfolk Broads and the coast south of Great Yarmouth, including Lowestoft and Felixstowe.
Residents have been warned of "extreme danger to life and property".
Paul Woodcock, Environment Agency regional director said: "We are concerned that the current weather and tides could lead to flooding especially in the Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Broads area. We would like people to especially think about any vulnerable neighbours.
"If we do confirm the risk of flooding in your area later today, please consider how you could help them to prepare for flooding as well."
A further five flood warnings are in place and 22 flood watches have placed parts of Essex and the north Kent coast on alert.
The Environment Agency and Met Office have been tracking weather and tidal patterns for the past week and now believe strong winds and low pressure are set to culminate in a tidal surge within the next 48 hours.
Stewart Wortley, head of storm tide forecasting at the Met Office, said: "The height of the surge we are expecting on Friday morning happens around once every 20 years or so. The gale force winds should ease during tomorrow."
Sea levels along the eastern coast may rise 9.5ft (2.89m) above normal levels, while the coast between Sandwich and Deal in Kent is anticipating tides 5ft (1.5m) above average.
The Thames Barrier is likely to close tonight.
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