Residents and businesses in Folkestone, Kent, are being urged to prepare for possible coastal flooding this weekend (Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February 2026) as high spring tides coincide with large swells and onshore winds. Met Office and Environment Agency forecasts show tides up to about 6.7 metres coinciding with waves up to 3.1 metres, a combination likely to cause overtopping of sea defences and shingle overwash onto promenades and coastal roads.
The Met Office forecast indicates wind gusts of around 35–40 mph that, combined with the large swells, may push seawater and shingle onto walking areas such as Sandgate Esplanade and Sunny Sands. The Environment Agency has issued warnings about possible overtopping and coastal flooding; in similar past events parts of Folkestone’s seafront, including the Harbour Arm, have been closed for public safety.
Folkestone & Hythe District Council carries out biannual shingle recycling and regrading between Fisherman’s Beach in Hythe and Folkestone Harbour to help protect around 3,000 homes and businesses. The RNLI is urging people to stay well away from the water’s edge, sea walls and harbour walls. “We urge people to think very carefully about beach safety before setting off on a coastal walk, especially during the big spring tides. Conditions can knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea,” said Guy Addington, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead for the South East.
Boat operators, seafront businesses and visitors are advised to monitor Met Office and Environment Agency updates throughout the weekend. The highest risk is expected in the 1–2 hours either side of the high tides (the briefing identifies midday and midnight windows as likely peak periods). Check the government’s Check for Flooding service and follow local safety signs and instructions to avoid dangerous conditions.
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