North Sea could reach highest level in 30 years

Local authorities at the coast were last night making preparations for storm weather expected today that could lead to the highest water levels in 30 years. Breakwaters were reinforced, while fire brigades checked their stocks of sandbags. Boat owners were advised to bring their boats into marinas, while police organised extra patrols.

The storm is a combination of spring tide and high winds, and, according to simulations, the water level could reach 6.1 metres by its highest point at around 3.00 on Friday morning. “That’s the highest level in 30 years,” said governor Carl Decaluwé of West Flanders. “I am calling on all mayors to take the necessary measures. However, there is no need to panic.”

The Royal Meteorological Institute forecasts a high of nine degrees on Thursday at the coast, followed by strong to very strong north-westerly winds, gusting at times up to 90km/h, gale force nine, with waves along the shore of up to 250cm, rising to 400cm at sea. Walking on dykes and sea-walls is not advised, the Institute said, because of the danger of waves coming onto land.

Meanwhile in Antwerp, the flood gates on the Scheldt have been closed in anticipation of high water as a result of the storm. No parking will be allowed on Scheldekaaien until Friday evening at the earliest. The port authority also announced that no new ships would be allowed to moor along the Scheldt, although ships already moored may remain.

Pedestrians were warned that water could overflow onto the road surface and were advised not to walk out onto the flood gates at or around high water.