PARTS of the Wirral coastline have been put on flood alert as Force 7 to 8 gales are expected to whip up high tides at around noon today.

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Warning for Birkenhead Woodside during high tide at 12.35pm,, meaning flooding is expected and urgent action should be taken.

It has also issued a Flood Alert for the West Wirral coast.

South Parade and Dee Lane in West Kirby and Egremont Promenade are currently all closed due to high winds and flooding.

Merseytravel says that due to the current weather resulting in poor rail conditions, trains running across the whole Merseyrail network may be cancelled or delayed at short notice.

Mersey Ferry crossings have been postponed until further notice.

Check for Merseytravel updates here

The stormy weather is expected to continue throughout the day, with gales of 60-to-80mph.

There are presently 31 weather warnings or alerts in place across the North West, and 200 in force for all regions.

Gusts of more than 90mph have been recorded in Scotland, with 92mph recorded at Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands, 89mph at South Uist in the Outer Hebrides and 72mph at Malin Head in Northern Ireland.

In some part of Britain, gale-force winds threaten to whip up the most serious tidal surge for 30 years.

Severe gales and large waves combined with high water levels are expected from Cumbria down to Cheshire.

Natural Resources Wales is urging people along the North Wales coast between eastern Anglesey and Liverpool to be prepared for flooding.

Dr Paul Leinster, chief executive of the EA, said: "Gale force winds and large waves along the east coast of England are forecast during Thursday and Friday, coinciding with high tides and a significant coastal surge.

"Flooding of some coastal communities is expected and some defences could be overtopped by the combined effect of high tides, high winds and a tidal surge.

"Coastal paths and promenades will be highly dangerous as there is an increased risk of people being swept out to sea.

"The Environment Agency is monitoring the situation closely, working alongside partners including the emergency services, Met Office and local authorities.

"Environment Agency teams are out on the ground checking that flood defences and barriers are in good working order, monitoring sea levels and issuing flood warnings."

The Thames Barrier was closed last night to protect London, and other defences have been activated at Colne in Essex and in Hull.