Flood Alert Issued for Essex Coast and Estuaries for Tuesday Afternoon

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Essex coastline. This alert indicates that flooding is possible due to high tides occurring today, Tuesday, 3 March 2026. The agency is currently monitoring the situation closely.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Essex coast from Clacton to and including St Peters Flat, as well as the Colne and Blackwater estuaries. Specific locations identified as being at risk include:

• Clacton Promenade, Lee-over-Sands, and Brightlingsea sea front, which may experience wave overtopping and spray.
• The Strood at Mersea Island.
• Coast Road and car parks on the front at West Mersea.
• The Hythe and Promenade at Maldon.

What You Should Do

Residents and visitors in the affected areas are advised to take the following precautions:

• Avoid coastal roads, footpaths, and car parks which may be flooded.
• Monitor local weather reports and stay informed on changing conditions.

Expected Conditions

High tides are expected to lead to flooding in low-lying areas. The detailed forecast predicts a peak water level at Clacton of 2.77mAODN at 12:00 noon today, which is 0.65m above standard tide tables. Weather conditions at the time of the peak are expected to include a North Easterly Wind at Force 4.

Timeline

The flood alert is specifically in effect today, Tuesday, 3 March, between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. According to the Environment Agency, no further high tides are expected to cause issues over the coming days. This message is scheduled for an update by 5:00 PM on 03 March 2026, or sooner if the situation changes.