The Environment Agency urges the public to be aware of the risk of flooding as Storm Claudia brings further heavy rain across the country.
Rainfall has already caused flooding in the north of England, with at least 17 properties flooded. Significant surface water and river flooding is expected across larger parts of England, particularly central areas, from Friday and throughout the weekend.
As of 11.45am on Friday 14 November, there are 97 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, and two flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, in place.
Joe Cuthbertson, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said
Significant surface water and river flooding impacts are probable for parts of England on Friday, with significant river flooding likely continuing into Saturday. Ongoing impacts from rivers are possible across the weekend.
Environment Agency teams are out on the ground, operating flood defences and supporting local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people not to drive though flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.
People should search ‘check my flood risk’, get free flood warnings, and keep up to date with the latest situation at @EnvAgency on X.
Floods Minister Emma Hardy said
As parts of the country are forecast to experience heavy rainfall, I recognise people will be concerned about the risk to their homes and livelihoods.
I am in regular contact with the Environment Agency on their response to the expected flooding, who, alongside local authorities and the emergency services, are already taking action to keep communities safe.
I urge the public to follow local advice over the next few days to ensure they stay safe, as well as signing up for flood warnings and keeping up to date with the latest situation at @EnvAgency on X.
Across the country, Environment Agency officers are working round the clock checking flood defences, clearing debris and erecting temporary barriers.
We continue to monitor forecasts and impacts on water levels across the country. We urge the public to check their flood risk, get flood warnings and to consider the weather before travelling.
People can check their flood risk, get free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation, and follow @EnvAgency on X for the latest flood updates.