The Environment Agency is reminding communities along England’s west coast, especially those near the River Severn and Wye, to remain vigilant and to continue to prepare for flooding. There are many flood warnings in place.
Ten flood warnings were issued for the Severn Estuary, River Wye in Gloucestershire, and the River Severn in Gloucestershire on Friday morning in preparation for Storm Eunice. This storm has brought strong winds to the UK. This storm surge and high waves have caused flooding.
Environment Agency defences have protected more than 18,000 properties from flooding in the 24 hours since yesterday.
While severe flood warnings are now lifted, as of 13 :45, 48 flood warnings remain in effect. This means that flooding can be expected. There are also 102 flood alerts which indicate that flooding is likely.
The Environment Agency has been working hard over the past week in preparation for Storm Eunice’s worst-case impacts. It is also planning for all possible outcomes to keep people and communities safe.
Teams were on the ground to set up barriers and screens to help reduce potential flooding impacts. Flood gates have been shut down along the Severn tidal river, the south west of England, as well as other affected areas.
The public is also being urged not to hesitate to sign up and receive free flood warnings. What to do in the event of flooding.
Stefan Laeger is the Environment Agency’s Flood Duty Manager.
The public should remain cautious as Storm Eunice’s ongoing impacts have caused a storm surge, large waves and potential coastal flooding to areas of the west and south coasts of England. This could also affect the tidal Rivers Severn in Gloucestershire. This weekend is expected to bring more heavy rain, which could also lead to inland flooding.
Environment Agency teams are still on the ground closing flood gates and clearing screens that could be clogged up by flood debris. They are also available to operate flood defenses if necessary. Flood gates are still closed on the south and north coasts of Cornwall and Devon. Barriers are in place. We are working with local resilience forums partners to plan for an emergency response to floods.
We have made significant investments in flood defences across the nation, better protecting 314,000 houses since 2015. Although 18,000 properties have been secured by flood defenses in affected areas, we urge caution as flood risks continue.
Be careful on promenades and coastal paths. We urge people to remain safe on the coast, and warn wave watchers about the dangers of taking storm selfies. Flooding of low lying roads along the coast is possible. It is best to avoid driving through flood waters.
To check my flood risk online, type in “Type check my flood risk” to sign up. For the most up-to-date flood information, follow @EnvAgency Twitter or call Floodline at 0345 988 1188.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Paul Gundersen said:
Storm Eunice will bring strong winds to the UK’s central and southern regions after the impacts of Storm Dudley on Wednesday.
Red warning areas indicate a danger to your life. Strong winds can cause damage and debris to structures. The most exposed areas on the coast could experience gusts exceeding 90 mph. However, winds will continue to blow inland with gusts between 60-70 mph for most people within the amber warning area and up 80 mph in some places.