A FLOOD alert has been issued this afternoon (Friday, September 20) for Ellesmere Port.

A high tide is forecast for this afternoon across the Mersey Estuary from Liverpool and Wirral to Widnes.

The Met Office say that they do not anticipate the flood alert level to be met during the high tide, but flooding is still possible at low-lying lands and roads.

Areas such as Rock Park, near Birkenhead, and Hale Village, are expected to be affected from around 1.30pm onwards.

However, flooding of property is not expected.

The Met Office do expect the Flood Alert level to be met during the next high tide, which is forecast for the early hours of tomorrow morning (September 21).

In the event flooding does occur, residents are being advised to avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and not to attempt to walk or drive through flood water. 

Further updates are expected this afternoon by 5pm, or as the situation changes.

Areas at risk include Liverpool, New Ferry, Woodside, Ellesmere Port, Runcorn, Widnes and Hale Village.