The parish of Great Wakering is in a low lying area below sea level and very prone to flooding as storms sweep in from the North Sea causing tidal surges and huge waves with them. Wind has probably the biggest influence but there are many other factors. Barometric pressure also has an influence. A fall in pressure allows the tide to rise and a high wind from the Northerly quarters pushes the tide down the East Coast - this would normally pass through the Straits of Dover into the English Channel.
As the Straits are only twenty two miles wide this causes the tide to back up in this area and creates a funnel effect. We are in the top part of the funnel which causes a rapid increase in the tidal height causing the tide to overtop the seawalls and flood homes, businesses and highly fertile farmland.
Just a few years ago, the tide reached the top of the sea wall and had there been strong winds, we would have had a flood.
The sea walls have undergone some maintenance in recent years, however their condition does constantly need to be reviewed. At present the are some areas, in particular around Shoebury Garrison, that are looking worn.
The Parish Council does have an emergency response plan and they are constantly reviewing it. This plan has recently been updated to reflect the need for more emergency wardens, Councillors undertaking first aid training, public open days a need for a defibrillator and emergency directional signage. However it is unclear whether all of these measures have yet been implemented. Whilst good work is being done by the Council inn this area, I would propose that the public are much better informed about the issues and measures being taken.
