Warnings of flooding across Britain over fears of 'dangerous' waves

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Much of Britain is at risk of flooding after strong gales and heavy downpours battered the country last night.

Over 26 flood alerts and weather warnings have been issued for Cumbria and North Sea at Easington and Kilnsea after they were hit by high winds and dangerous tidal surges.

Residents of coastal hamlets near the Cumbrian coastline, from Gretna to Silloth including Port Carlisle, Skinburness and Rockcliff, have been told to take care near if they venture near the sea front.

Homes and roads are most at risk as experts warn homeowners to take 'immediate action' to protect their properties.

The Environment Agency said: "Please be careful along beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths and roads as large waves and sea spray could be dangerous and activate any property flood protection products you may have, such as flood barriers and air brick covers."

Another 26 flood alerts have been issued for Somerset, North Devon and North Cornwall as well as the Mersey Estuary and Morcambe Bay.

Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin said: “Many places will be starting drab.

“Across the north it will be fairly soggy and fairly wet across the morning.

“Rain will come through the night across Scotland and it will be fairly wet across northern isles.”

The weather in the rest of the country presents a different picture with unseasonably warm temperatures will hovering at around 12-15C.

Forecasters say a Saharan plume of warm air is expected to blow into the country- pushing thermometers up to 20C this weekend.