Fire service warning as flooding hits

FIREFIGHTERS in the UK were being stretched to the limit after Storm Claudia triggered major flooding and widespread disruption, their union warned yesterday.

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The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) highlighted the "immense pressure" on fire and rescue services because of severe flooding in parts of Wales and England. The FBU said the service had suffered years of cuts and reduced fire appliance availability, leaving firefighters under "increasing strain" during major weather events.

Steve Wright, FBU general secretary, said: "Firefighters in Wales and England have been working tirelessly through the night and into today to deal with severe flooding and protect communities affected by Storm Claudia.