Island braced for worst floods since 2002

The Island has been placed on a high flood alert.

A high tide is anticipated to be helped along with strong winds resulting in flooding. 

The eastern coastline expected to be worst hit - with Ramsey, Castletown and Douglas currently most at risk.

The emergency services will be out in force during the night. A number of road closures are expected, including the entire length of Douglas Promenade seaward side and around the harbours from 11am to 3pm during the high tide period.

The Water and Sewerage authority are expecting the flooding to be on a par with levels present during the 2002 flooding - which saw structural and water damage totalling at £8 million.

Vehicle owners with cars parked at the North end of the Douglas promenade and in underground garages are advised to clear them immediately. Property owners in these areas are being urged to protect their homes with the sandbags provided by the Department of Infrastructure (DoI).

The DoI is calling around 50 staff back from leave to help manage incidents and Civil Defence will also make approximately 40 volunteers available. 

The following roads will be closed in anticipation of problems from around 11am:
Douglas Promenade, Broadway to Port Jack
Leigh Terrace, Douglas
Shore Road, Gansey
Castletown, Promenade
Ramsey, Promenade
Parliament Street, Ramsey
North Quay, Quines Corner to Parade Street
Laxey Promenade