12 flood warnings issued ahead of Storm Dennis arrival in UK

THE Environment Agency has urged people to be alert ahed of the arrival of Storm Dennis in UK on Saturday (15).

Heavy, persistent rain on Saturday and Sunday is likely to bring significant river and surface water flooding to parts of England over the weekend, the Agency said.

As of Friday (14) afternoon, there are 12 flood warnings, meaning that flooding is expected, and 98 flood alerts, meaning that flooding is possible, in place across the country.

A heightened risk of flooding across much of southern, central and northern England is expected this weekend. The impact may continue in some slower responding rivers into Monday and Tuesday, an official statement said.

The Environment Agency is operating flood defences and flood storage reservoirs, and is ready to issue flood warnings and advice to those at risk ahead of the incoming weather.

The Foss and Hull Barriers are already in operation, helping to protect thousands of properties.

Caroline Douglass, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

“The above average rainfall that we have seen since the autumn means that we’ll be seeing rain falling on already wet ground, leading to an increased risk of flooding. Our operations teams are also out on the ground putting up temporary flood barriers and installing mobile pumps where needed to help keep homes and businesses safe from rising river levels."

"We will continue to monitor weather and river levels closely and we are issuing flood warnings to communities at risk to help them take action and stay safe.”

Additional temporary flood barriers were put up in Shrewsbury and Bewdley on the River Severn and Billington and Ribchester River Ribble to provide additional protection to communities ahead of expected high river levels brought by the heavy rain, the statement said.