‘Be prepared for further flooding’

Heavy rain today (Thursday) could lead to further flooding this afternoon and evening, the Environment Agency has warned.

Run-off from already wet fields and other areas could lead to further river and surface water flooding, and strong winds could worsen surface water flooding, as wind-blown leaves and debris block drains.

There are currently 33 flood warnings and 56 flood alerts in force.

The Environment Agency is reminding people in the affected areas – which include Devon, Cornwall, Wiltshire, Dorset, Bristol, Somerset, and Gloucestershire – to keep up to date with the latest flood warnings. It also advised the public to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater.

“We strongly urge people to sign up to flood warnings on the Environment Agency website, keep a close eye on local weather forecasts and be prepared for flooding. We also ask that people stay safe, by staying away swollen rivers and not attempting to drive through floodwater,” said Nick Moore, of the Environment Agency.

“Environment Agency teams have been mobilised across the country to check on flood defences, clear river blockages and monitor river levels. These teams work around the clock to reduce the risk of flooding, and will be out in force over the coming days. Environment Agency flood defences have protected more than 2,000 properties in the past 24 hours.”

Flooding has already led to significant travel disruption and the Environment Agency continues to keep the Highways Agency and rail operators up to date with the latest forecast.

Saturday and Sunday are set to see more wet weather across the country with the possibility of further significant disruption caused by flooding.

Updates will appear here.