The Environment Agency is warning communities along the east coast of England to be prepared for large waves and possible flooding throughout Friday into Saturday morning, including the possibility of a three metre storm surge.

There are currently11 severe flood warnings(which indicate a danger to life), 88 warnings and 78 alerts in force in England and Wales.

Counties particularly at risk include Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex – an evacuation is currently under way in Jaywick, Essex while a similar operation will begin in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk at 10am this morning.

Leaflets issued to households in Jaywick are warning that their properties "could be flooded by sea water up to a depth of three metres".

Gale force winds combining with high tides are likely to result in large waves carrying dangerous debris, like rocks. The conditions are also expected to cause traffic disruption and could affect properties on the coast.

In addition to equipment already along the coast, Environment Agency teams have moved 7,500 metres of temporary barriers and 25 pumps to depots and towns including Newcastle upon Tyne, Blythe, Great Yarmouth, Chelmsford, Rye, and Trusthorpe and South Ferriby in Lincolnshire. The Hull tidal barrier was brought into operation last night  and all east coast flood gates have been closed.

Mark Sitton-Kent, National Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

“Gale force winds and high tides are likely to create large and dangerous waves along parts of the east coast on Friday and Saturday. These conditions could also cause flooding to coastal roads and could impact properties.”

“We are prepared to take action wherever it is needed. We have moved resources and equipment to the coast and the army is on standby to assist if needed.”