Worksop residents urged to prepare as heavy rain hits the Midlands

The Met Office is forecasting up to 80 mm (three inches) of rain for parts of the Midlands and north east over the next 48 hours.

Warnings are likely to be issued for river and surface water flooding, and impacts are likely to be felt across the Midlands.

David Jordan, director of operations at the Environment Agency, said they were expecting flooding across the country into Monday and Tuesday.

“We strongly urge people to sign up to flood warnings, keep a close eye on local weather forecasts and be prepared for the possibility of flooding,” he said.

“We also ask that people stay safe, by staying away swollen rivers and not attempting to drive through floodwater. “

“The Environment Agency already has teams out on the ground checking on flood defences and clearing any blockages in order to reduce the risk of flooding as much as possible.”

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “Significant disruption, including disruption to travel and flooding of properties and communities, is possible.”

“Strong winds will increase the risk of flooding as wind-blown debris has the potential to block watercourses and drains.”

The Environment Agency has mobilised teams across the Midlands to check on flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels.

In addition to surface water flooding, it is likely that a significant number of river flood alerts (meaning that flooding is possible) and warnings (meaning that flooding is expected) will be issued over the next three days.

The public are urged to check the Environment Agency website for the latest information: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.

Anyone concerned about potential flooding should sign up for free flood warnings on the Environment Agency’s website or by calling the Environment Agency Flood Line on 0845 988 1188.