The Environment Agency warns that a significant flood risk
remains for the next few days in parts of England, with ongoing
flooding expected due to the recent extreme weather and further
rainfall on the way. England has now received over 200% of its
average February rainfall with some areas experiencing a month’s
worth of rain in 24 hours.
Severe river flooding is expected today and tomorrow on the River
Severn. Due to record-breaking river levels along the Severn,
potential overtopping of defences remains of high concern in
Ironbridge and Bewdley. EA staff are on the ground bolstering
defences and working closely with emergency services to keep
people safe. Ongoing significant flooding is possible along the
Severn through to Friday as river levels will remain
exceptionally high.
On the rivers Wye, Ouse and Trent significant river flooding is
possible. Further localised flooding is possible in parts of
England later this week and into weekend due to further heavy
rainfall expected on Friday. Groundwater levels across parts of
Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Sussex are continuing to rise
and will lead to further flooding later this week
As of 12:30 pm on Tuesday 25 February there are two severe flood
warnings for Ironbridge and Shrewsbury, meaning there is an
immediate risk to life; 106 flood warnings, meaning that flooding
is expected; and 155 flood alerts, meaning that flooding is
possible, in places across the country.
The Environment Agency is urging people to check their flood risk
and remain prepared to take action as the situation changes.
River levels have exceeded existing records across the country
this winter with a further 100 of the Environment Agency’s river
gauges surpassing all time readings this decade. The Rivers
Colne, Ribble, Calder, Aire, Trent, Severn, Wye, Lugg and Derwent
are among the many rivers where records have been broken due to
continuous wet weather.
Since the start of Storm Dennis, up to 1,000 Environment Agency
staff per day have been mobilised on the ground to issue flood
warnings, operate flood defences and temporary pumps, clear
debris from rivers, inspect damaged flood defences and make
repairs. Community information officers are also out supporting
affected communities offering advice and assistance.
Environment Agency operational teams have put up more than 6km of
temporary flood barriers across the country and flood defences
have protected over 33,700 properties from flooding over the last
week.
Caroline Douglass, Director of Incident Management at the
Environment Agency said:
“Our thoughts are with all who have been and continue to be
affected by the persistent and extreme weather. It is devastating
to see your home or business flooded, and as the case is for
some, be asked to evacuate.
“River levels remain exceptionally high and communities along the
river Severn – in particular Shrewsbury, Bewdley, Bridgnorth and
Ironbridge should be ready for potentially severe flooding. River
levels are also of concern on the lower river Ouse at Cawood. We
urge people to stay up to date and listen to the advice of
emergency services. EA staff are on the ground giving advice and
issuing flood warnings.
