Residents are being warned to stay well back from the seafront as large waves strike Swanage’s coastline and a flood warning is issued for the town.
Parts of Shore Road are currently closed as frothy waves strike the coast due to strong easterly winds. Swanage’s Friday Market, which was due to take place at Broad Road car park near Swanage Pier, has been cancelled as a result of the high winds.
Drivers should take care near the seafront as the sea foam is spread across roads, making driving conditions treacherous. The pavements are also affected making walking along the front difficult.
Beware of “danger of being swept away by large waves”
The Environment Agency has placed Swanage under a flood warning, meaning that flooding is expected and immediate action should be taken.
The east coast of Dorset closer to Poole is also under a less severe flood alert.
The Environment Agency has issued this information:
“Strong easterly winds are causing large waves to break over the harbour wall. These conditions will continue until late morning.
“The public are advised to stay well clear of the seafront area due to the danger of being swept away by large waves. Some property flooding is possible in the High Street area.
“Environment Agency staff are monitoring conditions on site and this message will be updated should the situation deteriorate.”
“Up to our knees in wind-blown foam”
Swanage resident and local artist, Paul Barron, ventured down to the seafront earlier and was surprised by the scene that he saw. He said:
“Up to our knees in wind-blown foam today. Good to get out but absolutely freezing!”
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