Flood Alert: Environment Agency issue warning for North East

The Environment Agency have issued a flood alert for the Tyne and Wear coast from St Mary’s lighthouse in Whitley Bay down to Crimdon Park, North Hartlepool which means that flooding is possible along this stretch.

They say strong onshore winds and large waves resulting from a weather system in the North Sea, coupled with seasonal high tides, could cause wind blown spray and wave overtopping along low lying areas like Seaburn and Hendon promenades between 4.30 pm and 6.30 pm this evening.

Sunderland City Council is working with the Environment Agency and partner agencies to monitor the situation.

Councillor Michael Mordey, Portfolio Holder for City Services, said: “We’d ask people to be careful and not to put themselves at risk if they are venturing near the promenade at Seaburn and Hendon.

“The high tides we usually get at this time of year coupled with strong winds and high waves from the current weather system means we could see waves crashing over the promenades and it’s important for people to be aware of this.

“After today’s snow we’d also ask motorists to take extra care on their journeys home and given the current cold spell we’d encourage people to check on elderly or vulnerable member of their family, friends, and neighbours to make sure they’re ok.”

For the latest updates on the weather visit the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk

Useful information is also available on: www.sunderland.gov.uk/winter-weather

Any concerns about flooding can be reported to the City Council on 0191 520 5550.