A flood alert has been issued for Ribble Estuary, for the section running from Preston Docks westwards, due to strong winds.

Strong north-westerly winds will coincide with the high spring tide at midday today (Tuesday 9 April, 2024).

Flooding of low lying land and roads near the River Ribble is expected between 11am and 1pm according to the Environment Agency.

Read more: Broadgate flood defences scheme sees new Ribble viewing platform taking shape

Areas most at risk include Freckleton Marsh, Riversway Docklands, Lower Penwortham, Hutton Marsh, Longton Marsh, Becconsall Marsh, Much Hoole Marsh, Bretherton Eyes, Croston Finney, Hesketh Out Marsh and Hundred End.

The public are being asked to plan their driving routes to coastal roads which may be flooded and to avoid walking along low lying footpaths adjacent to the estuary.

The alert will be updated as the situation changes.

Higher than normal tides are expected until Thursday 11 April, 2024. Further alerts or warnings may be issued.

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Read more: See the latest South Ribble news and headlines

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