Leicestershire agencies working round the clock following heavy rain

Tuesday, 1 October 2019 18:54

More than 88 reports have been received - Photos...

Councils, police, fire and the Environment Agency are working hard to help residents following the heavy rain.

Since yesterday (30 September), crews have been called out to more than 88 reports of flooding across Leicestershire and we've dealt with 250 calls across highways, police and fire.

Our crews have been out distributing sandbags, clearing gullies and closing flooded roads following a period of heavy rain. Police and fire crews have attended badly affected areas.

The Environment Agency will continue to monitor water levels and attend incidents.

Areas particularly affected include Stoney Stanton, Earl Shilton, Loughborough, Sileby, Mountsorrel, Barrow-on-Soar, as well as Hugglescote and Worthington. Three primary schools were closed earlier today in Swithland, Cossington and Congerston.

The Met Office has issued a weather warning for heavy rain until 8pm today and the agencies are working together to identify vulnerable residents impacted by flooding, supporting schools who are sending pupils home and trying to keep the roads moving.

Extra staff have been called in to work overnight to continue to deal with flooding issues on the highway where needed.

Our teams are being kept busy dealing with the heavy rainfall that has caused disruption to householders, businesses and motorists across the county.

“We have been working closely with our local partners to try to limit the impact the extreme weather is having.

“We will constantly monitor the weather situation across the county and respond to highway issues where needed. However, we would urge motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to take extra care.
Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for environment and transport

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “Our teams are working hard to keep people safe and informed throughout the affected villages in Leicestershire.

“We’re encouraging people to stay safe on the roads and sign up for flood alerts – which will let them know if there’s an imminent risk to their home.

“People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation www.gov.uk/check-flood-risk, call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or follow @EnvAgency on Twitter for the latest flood updates.

“We are also urging people to not drive through flood water, it’s not worth the risk as just 30cm of flood water can move a car.”

Residents are also being encouraged to prepare for flooding by: