The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for Somerset’s coastline, warning residents in Burnham-On-Sea that stormy high tides today (Tuesday) could send spray and waves onto the seafront. 

Strong onshore winds are forecast to combine with high Spring tides, prompting a warning to beach users, seafront walkers and residents. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION.

A Flood Warning has been issued by the Environment Agency.

Flood Warning in force: Somerset coast at Burnham-on-Sea, seafront properties.

Flooding is expected for: Coastline between South Esplanade and Berrow including Margaret Crescent, Pier Street, Abingdon Street, The Esplanade, College Street and Regent Street.   

Immediate action required.

High spring tides and a tidal surge may lead to overtopping of sea and river defences. Forecast high water is 20:15 on 11/03/20 with a level of 7.45 mAOD and a Force 5 South Westerly wind. All times are local and refer to the high water time at Hinkley and mAOD is height above average sea level. For more details refer to local tide tables. There is the possibility of flooding to vulnerable seafront properties and low lying areas for the coastline between South Esplanade and Berrow including Margaret Crescent, Pier Street, Abingdon Street, The Esplanade, College Street and Regent Street. 

We are closely monitoring the situation and we have operational gangs on the ground to monitor the tides and any impacts. Please be careful along beaches, promenades and coastal footpaths and roads.

The Environment Agency suggest what to consider if your property is vulnerable to flooding:

• Act on your flood plan if you have one.
• Move your family and pets to a safe place.
• Move your car or other vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.
• Use flood protection equipment, such as flood barriers, air brick covers and pumps to protect your property. Any equipment should be professionally supplied and installed to help reduce the impact of flood water.
• Move important items upstairs or to a safe place in your property, starting with cherished items of personal value that you will not be able to replace (such as family photographs). Next move valuables (such as computers), movable furniture and furnishings.
• You may need to leave your property, so pack a bag with enough items for a few nights away. Include essential items including a torch with spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, home insurance information, water, food, first aid kit and any prescription medicines or baby care items you may need.
• Turn off gas, electricity and water mains supplies before flood water starts to enter your property. Never touch an electrical switch if you are standing in water.
• If it is safe to do so, make sure neighbours are aware of the situation and offer help to anyone who may need it.
• Listen to the advice of the emergency services and be ready to evacuate your property if told to do so. Most evacuation centres will let you bring your pets.
• 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.
• 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://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/target-area/112FWTBUR01
• Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 164266.
• Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.
• Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.