45 homes in Hitchin flooded
Fire and Rescue services are evacuating residents, after the River Purwell burst its banks. St Faith's Church is open as a respite centre for those affected.
45 properties in the Woolgrove Road and Green Lane area of Hitchin have flooded.
It is after the River Purwell burst its banks in the early hours of the morning.
Hertfordshire County Council confirmed that Fire and Rescue services were deployed to assist residents, with evacuations carried out for those in immediate danger.
"We are doing all we can to support those affected by the flooding in Hitchin," said a spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council. "Our Fire and Rescue teams are working hard to ensure residents’ safety, and we are in close coordination with the Environment Agency and North Herts Council."
A respite centre has been set up at St Faith's Church, where impacted residents can find shelter.
Melanie Crowley, the vicar at St Faith’s Church, shared further details about the community's response. "The church was opened this afternoon at the request of North Herts Council. They called earlier today, asking if we could offer the space as the community centre was flooded," she explained. "We’ve set up tea and biscuits for anyone needing a place to stay for a few hours while the clean-up goes on. It’s a small gesture, but we wanted to help in any way we can."
Crowley noted that while the church itself is currently safe, residents nearby are understandably anxious. "I spoke to a couple of people earlier whose back gardens are completely underwater. It’s a serious concern for them. The church was last flooded about 40 years ago, but since then, improvements have been made to the drainage system. We’ve never seen such extensive flooding here before," she said.
Reflecting on the situation, she added, "It’s clear this has come as quite a shock to people, particularly those living along Woolgrove Road. Many wouldn’t have expected this. We hope the respite centre can provide some comfort while longer-term arrangements are made for those displaced."
Following heavy rainfall overnight and earlier in the week, widespread flooding has impacted Hertfordshire, with significant disruption reported across the county’s road network and residential areas.
Flood Warnings remain in effect at Ash Brook, Ippollitts Brook and River Purwell at Hitchin.
Hertfordshire County Council continues to work with local authorities and emergency services to assist those affected. Residents are urged to follow guidance and updates from official channels as efforts to manage the situation progress.