Parts of Kent have been hit with the highest tide in seven years - resulting in roads and coastal paths to be submerged in water.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for across the shoreline, with sea levels predicted to remain high throughout the evening.

The extent of the flooding in Faversham

Those venturing outside are warned to take particular care on coastal paths.

Police have been in Faversham - where residents say the flooding is the worst they have witnessed - since about 2.20pm, after the Creek burst its banks.

Officers are currently at the scene to help ensure people stay safe, and have closed Quay Lane, Abbey Street, Bridge Road and West Street.

The tide is believed to have peaked at about 2.45pm, but the Environment Agency predicts sea levels will remain high for up to four hours.

The authority is urging residents to be careful on beaches, promenades, coastal footpaths and roads.

Its alert says: "We are closely monitoring the situation. We expect flooding to affect low lying land, promenades and coastal footpaths. Coastal conditions should ease for subsequent tides after this afternoon."

Owners of The Quay restaurant are breathing a sigh of relief as they escaped costly damage from the approaching floods. Had the levels been two inches higher, water would have made its way into the business.

Meanwhile, Whitstable has reportedly seen its highest tide in seven years.

Strong winds along that stretch of coast prompted the Environment Agency and local authority bosses to close a number of floodgates in anticipation of high tides.

Canterbury City Council has shut its flood barriers as a precaution in Herne Bay and Whitstable.

Council staff will be out monitoring sea levels tomorrow afternoon and operating sluice gates on the coastal brooks to stop flooding inland.

Spokesman Rob Davies said: "Some floodgates will remain open but this doesn't mean we have forgotten to close them.

"The forecast will be monitored very closely over the next couple of days and if necessary, we will close further floodgates along our seafront."

In Chatham, the Pentagon Shopping Centre has been closed due to localised flooding.

Meanwhile, a large tidal surge was expected in the River Medway and people in Aylesford, Larkfield, Wouldham, the Medway Towns, Upnor, Hoo and Lower Halstow were warned it could cause flooding.

Floodgates are expected to be reopened tomorrow.

For all the forecasts, warnings and weather related news, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham

Read more: All the latest news from Whitstable

Read more: All the latest news from Herne Bay