Severe flooding impacts residents as more rain, strong winds, and snow are forecast for the UK.
Floodwaters from the River Severn breached defences today, prompting warnings of further severe weather across the UK. A major incident was declared in Bewdley, Worcestershire, and Ironbridge, Shropshire, as water levels neared record heights, leading to “danger to life” alerts.
Current Flooding and Impact
In Shrewsbury, the river peaked at 5.14m (17ft), marking the fourth-largest flood on record. Bewdley faced water levels of 4.98m (16ft) this afternoon, with Ironbridge reaching 6.5m (21ft) and possibly peaking at 7m (23ft) tonight. These surges follow heavy rainfall from storms Dudley, Eunice, and Franklin, which battered the UK over the past week.
The Environment Agency (EA) reported that 400 homes and businesses have been flooded so far, affecting areas in Shropshire, Yorkshire, and Wales. Local authorities have evacuated some properties near flood barriers, though many residents are staying put, bracing for the worst.
Residents Respond to Rising Waters
In Bewdley, Stuart Birch, a local resident, described how floodwaters breached his homemade barrier: “We stayed overnight, but the pump has been running constantly. We’re just hoping the situation doesn’t worsen.”
Meanwhile, in Shropshire, evacuations have taken place, including in the Jackfield area of Ironbridge Gorge. Resident Debbie Stokes recounted difficulties escaping her home: “I’ve had to climb through front gardens with all my bags. Times like this make you realise how dangerous it can be.”
Calls for Action and Government Support
Telford and Wrekin Councillor Shaun Davies urged the government to implement permanent flood defences along the Severn. “Some homes are still underwater, and others risk breaches despite existing barriers,” he said. Local authorities are providing support and preparing for worsening conditions.
Upcoming Weather Warnings
The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings for Wednesday and Thursday. One alert covers Northern Ireland and Scotland, warning of heavy snow, 70mph winds, and lightning. The second warning affects northeast England and southeast Scotland, forecasting winds of up to 60mph.
Katharine Smith, an EA flood duty manager, advised residents to avoid floodwaters and swollen rivers, highlighting the dangers of driving through inundated roads. “Just 30cm of flowing water can move a car,” she cautioned.
Power Outages and Further Risks
The Energy Networks Association reported that 11,400 households remain without electricity, though 1.4 million connections have been restored since last week. Thousands of homes in southeast England, including Essex, Suffolk, and Kent, are still without power.
With over 200 flood warnings issued across England and ongoing alerts in Wales and Scotland, officials remain uncertain when conditions will improve. Residents are urged to stay vigilant as recovery efforts continue in the face of unrelenting weather challenges.
