Burnham-On-Sea is braced for a series of exceptionally high Spring tides over the next few days.
A rare alignment of the sun, earth and moon will result in some of the highest tides for several years, say experts, with a risk of overtopping and spray along Burnham’s seafront if onshore winds whip up waves.
In Burnham, there will be a 12.1m high tide on Friday at 7.42am and 8.06pm. There will also be 12.2m tides on Saturday (February 21st) at 8.27am and 8.50pm, followed by a 12.0m tide on Sunday at 9.10am.
The rare astronomical phenomenon results in a much higher gravitational pull on the Earth’s oceans than normal, which can create so-called ‘supertides’.
It happens once every 18.6 years, and in 2015 the tides will be at their peak during the two equinoxes this month and on September 29th and 30th.
Members of Burnham Sailing Club have been checking their moorings are secure this week ahead of the high tides. Walkers have been urged not to put themselves at risk by trying to get close to the waves.
The Environment Agency says it will be closing the town’s flood gates at the jetty, Sailing Club and Maddock’s Slade as a safety precaution.
Sedgemoor District Council also says it will be monitoring the conditions, with spokeswoman Claire Faun adding: “We always have a stock of sandbags and whether they are deployed or not will depend on the weather. However, we are aware and are prepared.”
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