Parts of Kent are preparing for a possible coastal flooding with some floodgates closed tomorrow night (Friday 24 November) to protect areas from the rising tide and the strong wind.
Canterbury Council report that the tide at 10pm will be higher than the normal level and the wind will change direction to north westerly, creating a surge that could overwhelm the sea defences. This is why it has decided to close some of the floodgates as a precautionary measure, even though no official flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency.
Some floodgates will remain open, but this is not a mistake. The council is monitoring the forecast very closely and will close more floodgates if necessary.
Council workers will also be out and about in coastal areas to check the high tides and operate the sluice gates on the brooks to prevent the sea from flooding inland.
Canterbury Council is urging the public to stay away from the seafronts and follow the safety advice.
Sign up to the Environment Agency’s flood warning service.