Coastguards will be patrolling Weston-super-Mare seafront as high tides and storms are set to batter the region.
Weston Coastguard Rescue Team have been carrying out ‘incident prevention’ safety patrols along the coast as Storm Ellen sweeps across the country.
Strong winds coupled with high Spring tides means there is a risk of the sea wall being breached and flooding taking place.
North Somerset Council also has teams on stand-by to close the flood gates along the seafront if deemed necessary.
Tides this week are expected to reach over 12ft – just inches lower than the sea wall.
A spokesman for Weston Coastguard Rescue Team said: “With the weather worsening into a storm over the next few hours members of our team will be patrolling the seafront ensuring that public are safe and we can quickly respond if any flooding/incidents occur.”
Coastguards are also warning people not to stand to get close to the waves.
In the past people have filmed themselves stood on the promenade, running away from the waves as they crash over – an activity known as ‘wave dodging.’
The spokesman added: “We will also be looking out for the safety of the public as these tides often attract the wrong attention from wave dodgers who end up broadcast on social media.
“So if you are on the seafront please stay in a safe area as a photo isn't worth risking your safety.
“We will also be out over the following two tides keeping a safety watch until the tide is heading back out.”
North Somerset Council also warned people to be on their guard and stay safe during the storms.
Council spokesman Nick Yates said: “In view of the stormy weather predicted for the next couple of days we will have crews on standby to close to floodgates on Weston seafront if needed.
“Crews will be ready to respond to incidents such as fallen trees or flooding.
“If the high tide causes over topping then people should be on their guard – people need to treat the sea with caution and keep well away.
“Anyone putting themselves at risk puts the lives of rescuers in danger.”
A yellow weather warning for wind is in place for Friday with the Met Office warning they could cause some travel disruption and power outages.
It will remain windy for the rest of the day, only easing into the evening.
However strong winds will remain around coastal areas.
Saturday remains windy with showers and sunny spells throughout the day.
Anyone who spots a person in trouble along the coast should call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
