FLOOD alerts have been issued by the Environment Agency at Christchurch Harbour, Poole Harbour and Purbeck.

In Christchurch tidal overlapping is forecast around the harbourside as a result of high tides.

The second high water forecast at Christchurch is at 11.45am.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: "Flooding to harbour promenades and coastal footpaths is possible at these times, however conditions may apply two to four hours either side of the high tide.

"We believe there is a possibility of flooding for Christchurch Harbour and tidal stretches of the Lower Stour and Avon."

High sea levels are expected to continue until after the high tides at 12.45am on Wednesday at Christchurch.

The spokesman warned: "Please be careful along beaches, promenades and coastal footpaths and roads."

Meanwhile, a flood warning is in place at Poole Harbour for the next three days of large tides.

First forecast high water is at 12.30am on Wednesday, with forecast Force 6 wind. Second high water is forecast for 12.45pm later that day, when wind speeds could reach Force 7.

The Environment Agency said: "Flooding to roads and coastal promenades is possible at these times. However, conditions may apply two to four hours either side of the high tide.

"We believe there is a possibility of flooding for Poole Harbour and tidal stretches of the Lower Frome and River Piddle."

The Environment Agency has also issued a flood warning for the next couple of days for Swanage Bay and Studland Bay.