The Environment Agency is lifting flood warnings following the most serious tidal surge in more than 60 years.   The surge, which saw around 1,400 properties flooded, resulted in record sea levels, which in places were higher than those seen during the devastating floods of January 1953.   Dr Paul Leinster, Environment Agency Chief Executive, said: “Our thoughts remain with those people who have been affected by flooding.  "People can find advice on how to recover from a flood on our website or by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188.   “We continue to work with our partners to review the impact of flooding and to ensure that damage to flood walls and banks is repaired as soon as possible.   “Our staff, partners and the emergency services have worked tirelessly to issue warnings, ensure that flood risk management assets were in place and move people to safety. Without their efforts the impacts of this storm could have been far worse.  ...

Communities along the length of the east coast of England should be braced for the most serious coastal tidal surge for over 30 years.   The Environment Agency and Met Office are warning that gale-force winds, large waves and a tidal surge caused by low pressure will combine with high tides tomorrow (Thursday), throughout Friday and to Saturday morning, bringing a risk of significant coastal flooding.   In some places, sea levels could be as high as those during the devastating floods of 1953. However, flood defences built since then – including the Thames, Deptford and Hull Barriers – mean that many parts of the country are much better protected than in 1953.   The Environment Agency recently issued a severe flood warning – its highest category – to homes and businesses near The Quay in Sandwich, Kent, for high tides at 00:43 and 13:06 on Friday. At present, there are also 16 flood warnings and 52 flood alerts in place.   Areas most at risk include...