Call for vigilance as rain keeps flooding risk alive

FORECASTERS have urged residents and businesses to be vigilant to the risk of flooding, with wet weather due to continue in England for another month.

- CLAIRE HAYHURST

Conditions have been exceptionally wet since the beginning of the year, with a strong and southern jet stream bringing frequent rain and strong winds.

Yellow weather warnings for snow, ice and rain are in force until this morning, affecting the Midlands and south of England.

It is expected that the wettest weather conditions will move further north from next week. However, the heavy rainfall and ground conditions mean a higher than normal risk of impact from heavy rain.

The South West has experienced 216mm of rainfall so far, 184% of the long-term average for this time of year.

Groundwater levels across the south and southeast of England are currently rising, leading to minor flooding. In Somerset, approximately 29 square miles of the Levels and Moors have been flooded, while around 355 have flooded across England - primarily in the South West.

There are currently 65 flood warnings, where flooding is expected, and 179 flood alerts, where it is possible, in place across England.