Approximately 15 properties are being evacuated in Salthouse in response to severe flood warnings issued for high waters tonight.

Properties affected by the warning will be visited by Community Flood Wardens, supported by officers from North Norfolk District Council.

Officers will door-knock households directly affected and provide advice on the current risks posed by high waters.

Where possible, residents are being advised to make alternative arrangements to stay with family or friends who do not live in affected areas.

A rest centre has also been set-up at The British Columbia Hall in Cross Street

Anyone heading to a rest centre is asked to bring their medication with them if they require it.

Superintendent Dave Buckley, who is helping co-ordinate the multi-agency response, said: 'This is a significant policing operation underlined by the numbers of properties affected.

'We understand people will be anxious but this action is necessary on the back of the latest information from the Environment Agency, which suggests the threat is significant. We also have additional police resources in place to manage the response.'

Evacuation advice:

Stay calm and do not panic.

Police officers and / or other officials will try to visit all properties at risk to advise on the requirement to evacuate.

If road conditions permit, move vehicles to unaffected areas for example higher ground and ask friends / family if you can share their parking facilities.

You will hear about your evacuation point for transport and the location of the reception centre either verbally or by a leaflet.

Try to check that any elderly / vulnerable family members or neighbours know about the evacuation.

Try to inform family members / friends as to where you are evacuating.

Listen to the advice of the authorities and follow any instructions to leave the property.

Take special foods and medicines.

Switch off gas and electricity.

If possible, move electrical equipment and furniture upstairs.

Any furniture that you cannot move upstairs, try to raise well off the floor.

Do not forget to lock all doors and windows.

lock doorways and air bricks – sandbags are not available via local authorities

Avoid walking and driving through floodwater, there could be hidden hazards.