FLOOD warnings urging immediate action have been issued in coastal areas of Dorset as tidal surges are expected to hit the region overnight.

The Environment Agency has issued specific warnings for Christchurch Harbourside and Poole Harbour at West Quay and Lower Hamworthy Quay.

In Christchurch, a large tidal surge is expected to overtop sea defences as a result of high tides. Forecasted high water is at 12.45am on Wednesday, January 15, with a level of 1.56m, accompanied by a Force 6 wind from the south west.

Bournemouth Echo: Flood warnings in red and flood alerts in orange based on information released by the Environment AgencyFlood warnings in red and flood alerts in orange based on information released by the Environment Agency

"Flooding to roads and farmland/properties is possible/forecast at these times, however conditions may apply two to four hours either side of the high tide," the warning says. "We believe there is a possibility of flooding for areas in close proximity to Christchurch Harbour including Mudeford, Stanpit, the Quomps and Wick areas. We are closely monitoring the situation."

Meanwhile in Poole, a similar surge is expected to clear sea defences due to the tide and strong wind. The high water is due at 12.30am at a level of 1.62m, with similar Force 6 wind.

"We believe there is a possibility of flooding for Lower Hamworthy and areas of Poole from Old Town, The Quay to Hunger Hill We are closely monitoring the situation," the warning adds.

Similar levels of flooding are possible on roads and properties around the times of high water.

Further flood warnings in Dorset, where immediate action is necessary, are in place at:

  • Dorset coast at Preston Beach
  • Lyme Regis Harbour
  • Poole Harbour at Wareham
  • West Bay Harbour

Flood alerts, where flooding is possible and people should be prepared, are in place for:

  • Christchurch Harbour
  • Dorset coast at Poole Harbour
  • East coast of Dorset
  • Groundwater flooding in the Cranborne Chase area
  • Groundwater flooding in the Salisbury Plain area
  • Groundwater flooding in the West of Dorset
  • Lower Avon and tributaries
  • Lower Frome and tributaries
  • Middle Stour and tributaries
  • River Axe area
  • River Nadder and tributaries
  • River Piddle and tributaries
  • River Yeo and River Parrett Moors around Muchelney and Thorney
  • South East Somerset Rivers, Upper Reaches
  • Upper Avon and tributaries
  • Upper Stour and tributaries
  • West coast of Dorset
  • West Dorset Rivers and Streams
  • Weymouth Rivers and Streams