Whole of Cornwall's north coast on flood alert as Storm Franklin looms

The Met Office says winds of up to 75mph could trigger huge waves

Author: Emma HartPublished 20th Feb 2022

Flood alerts have been issued for the whole of the north Cornwall coast as another named storm, Storm Franklin, sweeps towards the UK.

They are in force from Land's End to Bude, along with a yellow weather warning for strong winds.

The Met Office says gusts of up to 75mph could whip up huge waves, posing a danger to life from flying debris.

Forecasters fear it could also hamper the continued clean-up following Storm Eunice.

She brought down trees and power cables and caused widespread travel disruption.

On Sunday morning, more than 8,000 homes across Cornwall were still without power.

The Environment Agency has issued flood alerts for the north Cornwall coast ahead of Sunday evening's high tide.

Areas most at risk include St Ives Harbour, Portreath Harbour, the causeway at Hayle, Perranporth, Newquay, Mawgan Porth, Polzeath, Port Quin, Port Isaac, Port Gaverne, Trebarwith Strand and Boscastle.

The flood alert states: "Flooding is possible over this evening's high tide, Sunday 20th February.

"High water at Padstow is at 7.49pm, times of high water will vary along the coast.

"Strong Force 9 west-north-westerly winds and offshore wave heights up to 8m are forecast to cause wave overtopping of sea defences and sea spray in exposed coastal locations".

It continues: "People are advised to stay away from risk areas and take care next to the coast.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as required".

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