Burnham-On-Sea seafront was hit by 70mph winds early on Wednesday as big waves caused plumes of spray to be blown onto The Esplanade, leaving debris and some damage.
Big waves broke against the sea wall at high tide at just before 7.30am, as pictured here, sending spray onto pavements and The Esplanade.
Two pavement gratings along the seafront were broken, as pictured here, with pieces of tarmac strewn around them.
The Environment Agency closed Burnham’s flood gates at the Yacht Club, jetty and Maddocks Slade as a precaution – but the town escaped any flooding.
However, 130 homes were left without power for several hours on the outskirts of Highbridge from 4.30am-11am.
The Met Office said Storm Eleanor had created strong onshore wind gusts of up to 70mph.
Given this week’s high tides, the Environment Agency is warning residents to be aware that further spray and overtopping of sea walls could be seen over the next two days – check the Burnham-On-Sea tide times.
“Spray, overtopping or onshore flooding are predicted as a result of high water levels, strong onshore winds and large waves,” said a spokesman.
A supply of sandbags was delivered by Sedgemoor District Council for seafront properties, which were available from besides the pilot hut next to the BARB station on The Esplanade.
A yellow weather warning was issued by the Met Office, predicting gales of 60mph-70mph and a chance of some severe gusts of up to 80mph.
Carol Holt, the Environment Agency’s flood duty manager, said: “We urge people to stay safe on the coast – take extreme care on coastal paths and promenades, and don’t put yourself in unnecessary danger.”
