The Environment Agency is warning of the risk of some localised surface water flooding overnight and early tomorrow (Saturday) across parts of the South West due to heavy rain expected tonight.
The band of heavy rain falling in the north Midlands, through the North East, North West and Wales today, although currently expected to weaken, is forecast to move into the South West later tonight and tomorrow.
At present, there are no flood alerts or warnings in place in the South West but tonight’s forecast of rain may lead to the issuing of some new flood alerts and flood warnings, particularly for some vulnerable riverside properties, caravan and campsites in catchments where the river levels can rise very rapidly.
If anyone is organising an event or activity in an area that is vulnerable to flooding, they are urged to consider the risk and be prepared.
Environment Agency teams continue to work around the clock, monitoring river levels and clearing blockages in rivers to help reduce the risk of flooding, and offering advice to partners and communities on being prepared.
‘Clearly the bulk of the rain is falling in the north of the country at present, and we are doing much to help our colleagues up there already, but with a risk of some of this heavy rainfall reaching the South West later tonight, we are doing all we can to be ready and we urge people to remain vigilant,’ said an Environment Agency spokesperson.
‘People can check the Environment Agency website for updates and sign up for localised flood warnings for rivers. We also urge the public to stay away from fast-flowing, swollen rivers and not to drive or walk through floodwater even if it appears shallow.’
End
Notes to Editors
The Environment Agency updates its flood guidance every 15 minutes on its website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31618.aspx, and you can follow the Environment Agency on Twitter at @EnvAgencySW.
Met Office weather forecasts and warnings can be found at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ and you can follow the Met Office on Twitter at @metoffice and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/metoffice
