A flood alert has been issued for areas near the River Darent, spanning from Dartford to Westerham, following heavy rainfall over the weekend and today, September 23, 2024. The Environment Agency has warned of possible flooding along the 17-mile stretch of the river, with the alert in place as of 8am this morning.
Areas Affected by the Alert
The flood alert is in effect for the River Darent from Westerham to Dartford, including the following areas:
- Brasted
- Sundridge
- Chipstead
- Dunton Green
- Otford
- Eynsford
- South Darenth
These locations, particularly low-lying land and roads, are at risk of flooding today, as further rainfall is expected. A yellow weather warning for heavy rain is in effect across much of southern England until 11:59pm tonight.
Environment Agency Statement
In a statement, the Environment Agency said it is closely monitoring rainfall levels and clearing debris from weed screens to help prevent blockages. The situation will be reassessed later today, with another update expected at 8pm.
What Residents Should Do
Residents in the affected areas are advised to:
- Monitor local water levels and stay informed about weather conditions.
- Follow their personal flood plans if needed.
- Avoid using low-lying footpaths or entering flood-prone areas.
As the risk of flooding continues throughout the day, the Environment Agency urges residents to stay vigilant and prepare for potential water level rises.
