Parts of England and Wales are at risk of further flooding in the wake of Storm Claudia, the Environment Agency warned yesterday. While the rainfall had largely subsided, the agency said the run-off into rivers could cause them to burst their banks.
A major incident was declared in south Wales as emergency services worked to get people and animals to places of safety in and around Monmouth, after severe and widespread flooding. Motorists were asked to stay away from the area for their own safety and to allow emergency service vehicles access.
South Wales fire and rescue area manager Matt Jones said the situation on the ground remained volatile, with fast-moving floodwater, blocked roads and pressure on key infrastructure making access difficult. “This is a large-scale incident, and our crews and partners have been working tirelessly… to help those affected. I want to thank everyone involved for the professionalism and care they continue to show in very difficult circumstances.”
Natural Resources Wales issued four severe flood warnings and said there was a “significant risk to life” and that “significant disruption to the community is expected”.
Yesterday the Environment Agency (EA) said 58 flood warnings, which mean flooding is expected, and 150 flood alerts, which mean that flooding is possible, remained in place.
Some areas experienced up to a month’s worth of rain between Friday and Saturday. According to the Met office, one Leicestershire town recorded almost 100mm of rainfall and Mount St Bernard Abbey, near Coalville, had 96mm.
“Our sympathies are with the people who have sadly experienced flooding over recent days,” said Joe Cuthbertson, the EA’s flood duty manager. “While this has only affected a small number of homes, it is no less devastating for those impacted and our officers will work with communities to support them.
“Following heavy rainfall, it can take many days for river levels to fall and surface water to clear.”
An 85-year-old British woman was killed in Albufeira, Portugal, after extreme winds battered the Algarve yesterday. The woman was said to have been reported missing at a campsite and later found dead. Portugal and parts of Spain have been severely hit by Storm Claudia in recent days.
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