The Environment Agency and Met Office are asking people across the Midlands and Northern England to remain vigilant and prepared for flash flooding today (Thursday). The Met Office is forecasting outbreaks of torrential rain across many parts of central and northern England.
Heavy rain has already caused property flooding in Shropshire and South Herefordshire, and there is a continued risk of surface water flooding this afternoon and into this evening. Flooding from surface water happens when drainage systems are overwhelmed by rainfall.
The heavy rainfall could also cause rivers to rise rapidly. Environment Agency staff are on the ground monitoring river levels and clearing blockages to prevent flooding around culverts and bridges.
The public should check the Environment Agency website and Twitter feed @EnvAgency for the latest updates and river flood warnings. People are also advised to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater.
