Residents of 14 clifftop homes in Hemsby, Norfolk, were ordered to evacuate due to imminent collapse risks from Storm Goretti, with over 10m of land already lost to erosion.
Evacuation Ordered for Hemsby Residents Due to Storm Risk
Residents of 14 clifftop homes in Hemsby, Norfolk, must evacuate because Storm Goretti poses a risk of “imminent collapse” onto the beach below.
The owners of properties on Marrams and Fakes Road were informed that evacuation is necessary on Thursday night and over the weekend due to the risk of cliff falls.
Great Yarmouth Borough Council stated, “We have been liaising closely with people affected by erosion in Hemsby for some time, but the recent spate of storms and forecast of further damage from Storm Goretti means some properties are now in an even more precarious position.”
Details of the Erosion and Risks
The council, which is the local coastal management authority, reported on Thursday that over 10 meters (32 feet) of land has already been “lost to erosion in recent bad weather.”
The risk of “further substantial damage from Storm Goretti” in the coming days means the properties face “imminent collapse,” the council added.
They also mentioned that “safe demolition” now needs to be carried out.
Support for Affected Homeowners
The warning followed an assessment of the cliff line and close monitoring. A council spokesperson said, “Making sure residents and the public are safe is of paramount importance so we are working closely with owners to explain the risks, offer support and advice where necessary and detail the options available to people at this very difficult time.”
Affected homeowners have been urged to seek support and advice from council staff in the village.
Long-Term Coastal Erosion Issues
Hemsby has faced coastal erosion for years, forcing other residents out of their homes as the coastline recedes. The spokesperson added, “It is deeply upsetting for homeowners but doing nothing is simply not an option with the rate of erosion we face.”
They noted, “Our coastline is one of the fastest eroding in northern Europe and climate change means there will inevitably be further loss of land.”
“How we plan for that and provide appropriate support and information about the options available to people is of paramount importance.”
Safety Precautions for Residents
Residents of Hemsby have been urged to stay clear of the dune face and pay extra attention when walking in the area. The council mentioned that some parts of the beach may be closed for safety.
| Location | Number of Homes Affected | Evacuation Date | Land Lost (meters) | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hemsby, Norfolk | 14 | Thursday Night | 10+ | Imminent Collapse |
