Environment Agency warns of flood risk this week

Communities in Cumbria, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Devon and Cornwall are warned to be prepared for possible flooding and disruption to travel on Tuesday and Wednesday due to heavy rain and high tides.

Residents are being urged to check their flood risk, be prepared for flooding and be cautious if travelling, particularly on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Rivers in Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire already affected by record river levels throughout the wettest December on record are likely to be at risk, with the potential for heavy rainfall causing river levels to rise and flooding drains.

There is also the possibility for some flooding along the rivers Severn and Wye as rainfall causes river levels to rise. Heavy rain could also cause some impacts in southern England on Wednesday.

Environment Agency teams have been helping communities recovering from the severe floods which hit Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire last month.

Clare Dinnis, National Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “With heavy rain and high tides this week, people in Cumbria, Yorkshire, Devon and Cornwall need to be prepared for the risk of flooding.

“We will issue flood warnings and alerts where necessary as rivers respond to the rainfall. This could also cause drains to overflow, so people need to be ready for flash flooding in some places. Environment Agency teams are already out checking flood defences, clearing trash screens and blockages in watercourses and culverts.

“Disruption to travel and some flooding of low-lying land and individual properties is possible. We urge people to take care near coastal paths and promenades, and not to drive through flood water. People should check their flood risk and keep up to date with the latest situation at https://www.gov.uk/check-if-youre-at-risk-of-flooding or follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest flood updates.”