RESIDENTS at Poole Harbour have been told “immediate action” is required as a flood warning has been issued by the Environment Agency.

Sea spray overtopping is forecast along the coast as a result of high tides and strong winds due to Storm Ciara.

The warning said that flooding is possible for two hours either side of the high tide times of 10.15am and 10.30pm today.

Areas at risk were Lower Hamworthy and Old Town, The Quay and Hunger Hill.

“We are closely monitoring the situation,” the warning said.

“Our incident response staff are checking defences and liaising with emergency services. Please be careful along beaches, promenades and coastal footpaths and roads as large waves could be dangerous.”

Elsewhere, an alert has been released for possible flooding in Christchurch Harbour today and tomorrow.

Flooding is possible at the harbour and tidal stretches of the Lower Stour and Avon.

A flood alert has also been issued for Wareham at the tidal stretches of the Lower Frome and River Puddle.

The East Coast of Dorset has also been affected by Storm Ciara. A flood alert has been issued for Preston Beach and Swanage which is valid today and tomorrow.

The Lower Avon in Ringwood is still at risk as well. The river level remains high at the Ringwood Old Cottage, consequently the risk of flooding remains. Areas most at risk are tributaries between Ringwood and Christchurch.

The Environment Agency are checking defences and liaising with emergency services for all the alerts.