The Environment Agency has unveiled a new flood forecasting system this week to tackle the threat of tidal flooding in Yorkshire and the North East.

The new technology will enable flood experts to provide the most accurate tidal flood forecasting all the way from the Humber to the Scottish border, using the latest advances in coastal modelling.

It has been the result of two years research and development, and the launch coincides with this week's high tides, from Wednesday 26 September to Sunday 30 September.

A spokesman said the technology will bring greater accuracy and reliability to the way in which the Environment Agency monitors tidal flooding.

Asghar Akhondi, the Environment Agency's regional flood forecasting expert said: "This new technology means that we'll be able to more accurately predict, monitor and warn people about tidal flooding in our coastal areas.

"Recent flooding in the region has shown just how vital it is to have the best information so that we can give warnings to people and the emergency services about potential flooding, which is crucial to protect people's lives and property.

"The high tides this week will be an opportunity to test out this new technology."

The height of the tides this week are dependent on weather conditions such as wind strength and atmospheric pressure.

Officers will be issuing flood warnings along the coast if necessary.

The new technology is based in the agency's control room, designed to tackle the threat of flooding across Yorkshire and the North East, which was opened in March 2006.

The control room is based at the Environment Agency's Rivers House office in Park Square, Leeds.