Tidal Flood Alert Issued for Medway Estuary and Isle of Grain

A flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency South East for the Tidal Medway, Medway Estuary and the Isle of Grain, with potential flooding possible between 10:45am and 14:45 (2:45pm) today.

The alert advises residents and visitors in affected areas to remain vigilant during the high tide window. Flooding is expected to affect low-lying land, coastal roads and paths in these areas. The Environment Agency recommends avoiding walking, cycling or driving through any floodwater that may develop.

The Tidal Medway covers the estuary areas downstream from the river’s upper reaches, including communities along the water’s edge around Sittingbourne and Faversham. The Isle of Grain, located at the confluence of the Thames and Medway, is particularly vulnerable to tidal flooding during peak water levels.

Residents are advised to:

• Avoid all contact with floodwater
• Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours
• Keep away from riverside paths and coastal areas during the alert window
• Monitor official flood warnings throughout the morning

The Environment Agency continues to monitor water levels and tidal predictions. Further updates will be issued as the situation develops, and residents can sign up for flood alerts via the official check-for-flooding service to receive notifications by phone, text or email.

Drivers are urged to exercise particular caution on roads in flood-risk areas, as water depth can be deceptive and hidden dangers such as debris or damaged road surfaces may be present. The advice remains: never drive through floodwater, as even shallow water can sweep vehicles away.

Medway Council has reminded residents to stay informed through official channels and to take the alert seriously, particularly those living in properties known to be at risk from tidal flooding.

Key Takeaways

• A flood alert affects the Tidal Medway, Medway Estuary and Isle of Grain from 10:45am to 14:45 today
• Flooding may affect low-lying land, roads and coastal paths in these areas
• Residents should avoid contact with floodwater and stay away from affected waterside areas
• The Environment Agency is monitoring conditions and will provide further updates

What This Means for Kent Residents

If you live or work in tidal Medway areas, remain alert during the window specified. Keep emergency contact numbers handy and have a plan to move to higher ground if necessary. Residents in flood-risk properties should review their flood response plans and ensure they have essentials accessible. Stay updated through official Environment Agency channels rather than relying on social media for the latest information.