Parts of UK on flood alert with more downpours likely
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Sunday, February 28, 2010
Large parts of the UK are on flood alert after heavy rain, with further torrential downpours and strong winds predicted for southern England.
Parts of Cambridgeshire face a severe flood warning meaning lives and dozens of properties may be at risk.
The Environment Agency also has 20 flood warnings in place in East Anglia and north-east England and 132 flood watches across England and Wales.
In London, the Thames Barrier was raised to reduce the risk of flooding.
Two flood watches are currently in force in Scotland for the east coast from Peterhead to Berwick, and the Solway Firth from the Esk Estuary to Loch Ryan.
Parts of Cambridgeshire face a severe flood warning meaning lives and dozens of properties may be at risk.
The Environment Agency also has 20 flood warnings in place in East Anglia and north-east England and 132 flood watches across England and Wales.
In London, the Thames Barrier was raised to reduce the risk of flooding.
Two flood watches are currently in force in Scotland for the east coast from Peterhead to Berwick, and the Solway Firth from the Esk Estuary to Loch Ryan.
The Environment Agency said its officials were watching the situation closely and a spokesman urged people in the affected areas to be prepared.
"If flooding does occur in your area, (it's) best to stay out of flood water. Flood water is often contaminated, it's often dirty and if it's fast flowing, can be extremely dangerous," said the agency's David Beddlington.
"Even a few inches of water, if it's flowing, can knock people off their feet, and often you can't actually see through flood water. It's often muddy or dirty and there may be debris under the water.
"Some manholes may have burst their covers, so it's really important to stay out of flood water, a very important message," he said.