Flooding expected in rural areas around Sleaford as Storm Christoph hits Lincolnshire

There are four flood warnings and 13 flood alerts for the county as of this morning.

The Environment Agency is stating that there are flood alerts surrounding the River Witham and its tributaries from Washingborough to Boston where severe flooding is certain with a potential to endanger life.

They said: “Heavy rain fell over the River Witham catchment last week and further heavy rainfall is forecast today, Wednesday, through until tomorrow. We expect properties along the River Witham and associated fens from Washingborough to Boston to continue to be affected.

“Low lying properties near the river are most at risk. River levels are expected to remain high throughout this week. Stay safe and be aware of your local surroundings. Avoid contact with flood water, riverside paths and river embankments.

“Our staff are out in the area to check the flood defences, clear blockages, operate our assets and assist the emergency services and council. We are closely monitoring the situation.”

Flood alerts, where people are expected to be prepared for possible flooding.

These include the minor watercourses from Heighington to Dunston such as the Timberland and Metheringham Delphs, tributaries of the lower River Witham from Blankney to Sleaford including the Bilinghay Skirth, Kyme Eau, Leasingham and Ruskington Becks, and the South Forty Foot Drain catchment area stretching out to Scredington, BIllingborough, Folkingham and Swaton.

Two years ago in October 2019 there was flooding after heavy rain caused water to overtop the Billinghay Skirth near North Kyme, running across the A153, surrounding farmland was also affected. The Timberland Delph burst its banks flooding a large area of farmland and six properties were flooded and residents evacuated in Ruskington after Ruskington Beck overflowed. Cars were getting stranded in deep water pooling under Potterhanworth railway bridge on Station Road.