Weather Warning – Flood Alert Thursday 3rd Aug
This is an update from the Environment Agency.
Flood Alert in force: The Suffolk and Essex coast from Felixstowe to Clacton including Orwell and Stour estuaries. Flooding is possible for: The Suffolk and Essex coast from Felixstowe to Clacton, including Ipswich, and the Orwell and Stour estuaries.
Be prepared.
This message has been issued because some minor flooding to coastal roads and footpaths is likely to occur between 12:45pm and 2:45pm this afternoon, Thursday 3rd August. This is due to an unseasonal low pressure system causing a small tidal surge. The flood gates at Felixstowe seafront will be closed. The waterfront at Pin Mill, and The Strand at Wherstead under the Orwell Bridge may be flooded. Water may be on the quay at Mistley. The detailed forecast for those that use it is for a peak level at Harwich of 2.67mAODN at 1:45pm, Thursday 3rd August, which is 0.57m above tide tables, wind Force 4, north-westerly. (mAODN is height above average sea level, for more information refer to local tide tables). The following tide at 02:15am on Friday 4th August is also expected to reach Flood Alert level. You are advised to stay away from risk areas, and take care next to the coast. We are monitoring the situation and not expecting it to escalate. We will update this message by 5pm today, Thursday 3rd August.
To check the latest information for your area
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* Visit the GOV.UK website to see the current flood warnings, view river and sea levels or check the 5-day flood risk forecast: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/target-area/054WACDV4B
* Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 213586 .
* Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.
* Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.
What you should consider doing now
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* Monitor local water levels and weather conditions.
* Get ready to act on your flood plan if you have one.
* Move your car or other vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.
* Prepare a flood kit of essential items including a torch with spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, insurance documents, water, food, first aid kit and any prescription medicines or baby care items you may need.
* Businesses should inform staff and customers about the situation.
* Check that you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies.
* In rural locations, farmers should consider moving livestock and equipment away from areas likely to flood.
* Avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water. 30 cm of fast-flowing water can move a car and 6 inches can knock an adult off their feet.
* Flood water is dangerous and may be polluted. Wash your hands thoroughly if you’ve been in contact with it.