There is a continued risk of river and surface water flooding today (Tuesday) across northeast England, north Wales and Northamptonshire, the Environment Agency has warned.
Although the weather forecast is improving, further property flooding and disruption is possible across the country as river and groundwater levels are set to peak in the next 48 hours. Large, slow responding rivers, including the Thames, Trent and the Severn, are particularly at risk.
Emergency services have evacuated homes along the River Elwy at St Asaph in North Wales, after record river levels saw water coming over the top of flood defences. In North Yorkshire, the current areas of focus are Darlington, Pickering and Sinnington, where river levels are expected to peak later today. The River Thames is expected to continue rising for up to the next two days and Environment Agency teams have deployed mobile defences to protect properties in Oxford.
Groundwater levels in Winterbourne Abbas, Dorset, also continue to rise. This may result in flooding of properties and the A35 trunk road in the next 48 hours. Groundwater levels in Cranbourne Chase (Dorset) are rising more slowly and could continue for several days, posing a risk to rural roads.
Latest figures show that approximately 960 properties have flooded since Wednesday and the Environment Agency has sent 110,000 warnings to people at risk of flooding. Flood defences have protected almost 55,000 properties across England and Wales. Parts of the new £45m defence scheme in Nottingham, opened in September, have been put into action for the first time.
Working around the clock
Teams from the Environment Agency continue to work around the clock to shore up defences, monitor river levels and clear blockages from watercourses.
John Curtin, Environment Agency Head of Incident Management said: 'Our thoughts remain with those that have been affected by flooding. Further flooding is expected in the next few days and communities across the country, particularly in northeast England, north Wales, Northamptonshire, are urged to remain especially vigilant.
'Environment Agency flood defences have protected some 55,000 homes and our teams are continuing to work around the clock with local emergency services to keep communities safe. People should sign up for free flood warnings, keep up to date with the latest situation on our website, and stay away from dangerous flood water.'
Those in areas at risk should check the Environment Agency website for the latest information and sign up for free flood warnings on the Environment Agency’s website or by calling the Environment Agency Flood Line on 0845 988 1188.
