THE Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for areas across Cornwall, telling residents to ‘act now’.  

The red flood warning issued by the organisation explains that ‘flooding is expected’ this morning (Monday, February 12).  

Locations at risk include the A389 at Sladesbridge, the Rumps to Hartland Point including Port Quin, Port Isaac, Port Gaverne, Flexbury, Widemouth Bay, Trebarwith Strand and Boscastle, Padstow Harbour as well as low lying areas on the tidal River Camel including Padstow, Rock, Sladesbridge 

A spokesperson from the Environment Agency (EA) explained: “A significant high spring tide will be accompanied by force four north-westerly winds and wave heights of up to 1.9 metres on Monday morning. This is expected to be the highest tide of this series and could result in significant overtopping of low-lying land, quaysides and property flooding within one to two hours either side of high tide. Expect tides to be around 210mm higher than predicted due to weather conditions. Please take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather conditions. “  

EA explain that there are several actions which can be taken in the event of a flood warning, these include:  

  • Move vehicles to higher ground if it’s safe to do so 

  • Move family and pets to safety 

  • Move important items upstairs or to a safe place in your property, starting with cherished items and valuables, then furniture and furnishings 

  • Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it’s safe to do so; never touch an electrical switch if you’re standing in water 

  • If you have property protection products such as flood barriers, or air brick covers, use them now