A FLOOD alert has been issued along the Mersey in Halton.

The alert has been issued for parts of Runcorn and Widnes today, Sunday, due to an expected tidal surge and high winds from Storm Ciara.

Flooding is ‘possible’ on low-lying land as a result this morning and in the early afternoon.

Areas including Rock Park and Hale Village could be affected, with high tides expected between 11am and 1.15pm.

A government spokesman said: “The high tide on the morning of Sunday, February 9, is expected to be higher than usual at the Mersey Estuary from Liverpool and Wirral to Widnes as a result of surge and high winds from Storm Ciara.

“Consequently, flooding of low-lying land, roads and farmland is possible.

“Our incident response staff are closely monitoring weather forecasts and river levels and will issue flood warnings if necessary.

“Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses, be aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with the current situation.”