Recent heavy rainfall has led to minor, localised river flooding in Leicestershire, with the potential for further minor flooding impacts in other regions, including Lincolnshire. Despite the rainfall, the overall flood risk across the country remains low.
Heavy rains last week caused localised river and surface water flooding across parts of central England, Yorkshire, and the North East, impacting thousands of properties. As of 2 pm on Wednesday, there were 36 flood warnings in effect—indicating that flooding is expected—and 102 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible.
The Environment Agency (EA) reported that approximately 1,008 properties have been flooded, but their mitigation efforts have protected around 22,000 additional properties from damage. Teams from the EA are actively working on the ground, addressing high water levels, clearing blockages, and providing support to local authorities in their flood response efforts.
Chris Wilding, Flood Duty Manager at the EA, commented, “The overall flood risk continues to reduce. Recent rainfall means minor, localised river flooding is possible in Leicestershire. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services, and not to drive through flood water—it is often deeper than it looks, and just 30 cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.
The public is being urged to stay informed of their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings, and follow the latest updates. They can check the latest flood situation and follow the EA on X (formerly Twitter) for information.
Government Response and Visits
Floods Minister Emma Hardy and Environment Secretary Steve Reed visited affected areas last week to meet with local communities and assess the situation. Minister Hardy visited Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard, while Secretary Reed received a briefing in Northamptonshire on the EA’s response and the actions taken to protect local communities.
Emma Hardy, who has firsthand experience with flooding, extended her sympathy to those impacted, stating, “I know firsthand how devastating flooding can be, and my thoughts go out to those residents and businesses affected across the country. I met with those involved in the response on the ground, including representatives from the Environment Agency and its partners, and I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the vital work they have undertaken to help protect their communities.
The government remains committed to boosting flood resilience across the country through its Floods Resilience Taskforce, accelerating the building of flood defences and enhancing emergency response measures.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
The Environment Agency continues to urge residents to keep an eye on the weather, check their flood risk, and take necessary precautions to stay safe. They also emphasize the importance of following advice from emergency services, especially regarding road safety during floods.
With the recent heavy rainfall affecting various regions, the EA, local authorities, and the government remain vigilant in monitoring and addressing flooding threats, ensuring that residents are safe and informed during this challenging time.
