Rough sea at Sidmouth almost 25 years to the day after the great storm of 1987. Photo by Terry Ife ref shs 3200-42-12TI To order your copy of this photograph go to www.sidmouthherald.co.uk and click on myphotos24

Residents urged to remain vigilant ahead of high spring tides.

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Residents in East Devon are being urged to remain vigilant ahead of high spring tides and possible tidal flooding.

The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the Devon coast today (Wednesday) and expect high spring tides.

It says the high tides could combine with gusts of wind causing flood surges in some parts of Devon and Dorset between 6pm and 8pm.

The public is also being warned that high tides and strong winds could cause waves and spray to come over the top of sea defences at coastal locations.

David Blunt for the Environment Agency said: “With the high spring tides, and anticipated wind surges, our teams are working hard to ensure we are prepared and are working with our professional partners to make sure the public are aware of the risk.

“We are receiving regular weather updates from the Met Office, continuously monitoring both tidal conditions and river levels and have had officers out overnight checking flood defences and closing flood gates.”

He added: “People should be aware that there could be a lot of water in coastal areas, so avoid trying to drive or walk through any flood water and be sensible when out and about, particularly around the coast.

“Now is a good time for anyone who lives in an area vulnerable to flooding to think about the precautions they can take to protect their properties.”

Sixteen flood warnings and 18 flood alerts have been issued for parts of Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, where the high tides and storm surges could also see flooding of coastal areas.