The Environment Agency has issued 66 flood warnings across England following heavy rain on 26 September 2024, with more downpours expected.
This situation has led to significant disruptions in rail services and the closure of the M5 motorway in Gloucestershire in both directions. And heavy weather such as this as well as extreme weather events may only get worse with climate change.
The Met Office has a yellow warning in place for heavy rain affecting the southern half of England and Wales, with the Midlands being the most severely impacted region. As of Friday morning, the Environment Agency also reported 121 flood alerts in addition to the warnings.
Caroline Douglass, the Environment Agency’s executive director for flood and coastal erosion, cautioned drivers about the dangers of floodwaters, stating that just 30cm (12 inches) of water can sweep away vehicles.
She emphasised that many drivers underestimate the risk, believing their cars are too heavy to be moved by water. Douglass urged the public to avoid driving through flooded areas and to keep away from rivers and watercourses, especially over the weekend.
The Environment Agency is particularly concerned about the Midlands, which has experienced heavy thunderstorms recently, saturating the ground. The forecast indicates that traditional winter rainfall will exacerbate the situation, leading to further flooding risks.
The Avon Fire and Rescue Service is collaborating with National Highways to assist individuals stranded on the M5 due to flooding. The motorway is closed northbound between junctions 16 and 14, and southbound between junctions 14 and 15, as emergency services work to clear the area.
Local councils in Northamptonshire and Hertfordshire have confirmed several road closures and are actively working to ensure public safety. In Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, the borough council is distributing sandbags to residents to help protect their homes from flooding.
National Rail has warned passengers that the adverse weather could disrupt train services in England and Wales, with specific lines, such as those to and from Aberystwyth, being affected until later in the day.
With more rain forecast, communities are bracing for potential further flooding, particularly in already saturated areas. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prioritise safety as conditions worsen.
