Over a hundred flood warnings issued as UK battered by rain and wind

Over 10 flood warnings were issued across the UK yesterday after rain and wind continued to batter the island.

It is estimated that 42mm of rain fell in the south-east and 55mm in the south-west, which has now had 166% of the average rainfall for April. Trees fell, fords flooded and gardens disappeared under water after nearly seven days of constant rain.

A spokeswoman from The Environment Agency said: “The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the forecast and rainfall, particularly in Worcestershire, as the river levels are already higher than normal in the rivers Severn, Teme and Avon.

“Environment Agency officers are out monitoring river levels, checking defences and clearing any potential blockages – such as fallen branches and debris – to reduce the risk of flooding.

“Residents who live near rivers like the Severn should register for the Environment Agency’s free flood warnings service and everyone can keep up to date by checking our website, calling our Floodline on 0845 988 1188 and looking out for updates on our Facebook and Twitter pages.”

This afternoon, their official Twitter feed said Devon, Somerset and Dorset were on high alert.

Eleanor Hooper

Photo: Mark Lomas