Significant inland flooding is expected to affect parts of England on Tuesday and Wednesday, prompting the Environment Agency to advise caution during New Year celebrations.
Residents and travelers are urged to stay away from swollen rivers, as heavy rain increases the risk of flooding in affected areas.
A yellow flood warning has been issued, with heavy and persistent rainfall forecast to continue tonight (December 31) and into tomorrow (January 1). The warning covers the North of England, the Pennines, and parts of the Midlands. Significant river flooding could persist until Thursday (January 2), with surface water flooding also likely to impact these regions tonight and tomorrow.
The Environment Agency is closely monitoring conditions and their effects on river and surface water levels. The public is encouraged to check their flood risk, register for free flood warnings, and stay informed about the latest updates.
Stefan Laeger, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, stated:
“Heavy and persistent rain tonight and into tomorrow means river levels are likely to be high across the North of England, Pennines and parts of the Midlands until the end of the week, with significant inland flooding possible until Thursday and minor impacts possible on Friday.
Environment Agency teams will be out on the ground, operating flood defences, taking action to reduce the impact of flooding, issuing flood warnings and supporting those communities affected.
We advise anyone travelling or out celebrating the New Year to be especially careful and urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.
People should search ‘check my flood risk’, sign up for free flood warnings, and keep up to date with the latest situation at @EnvAgency on X.”
Environment Agency teams are actively working on flood prevention and response efforts. These include operating flood defenses, issuing warnings, and supporting affected communities.
The agency advises extra caution for those traveling or celebrating the New Year:
- Avoid swollen rivers and areas prone to flooding.
- Do not attempt to drive through floodwater, as just 30cm of flowing water can move a vehicle.
- For safety, the Environment Agency emphasizes staying informed and prepared to reduce flood risks and impacts during this period of heavy rainfall. Photo by SIMarsden, Wikimedia commons.