Communities drenched by heavy rain across Bucks, Beds and Herts
An amber weather warning for rain has now elapsed, but the torrential downpour has lead to plenty of disruption
Severe weather has caused widespread disruption across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire, following heavy rainfall and flooding.
Yesterday, The Met Office issued an amber warning for the region, with areas like Milton Keynes experiencing flash floods and receiving up to 40mm of rain within just three hours.
The torrential downpour's widely affected travel across the three counties.
In Bedfordshire, the Marston Vale line, between Bedford and Bletchley, is suspended until Monday due to standing water on the tracks.
The A421 is closed in both directions between the A6 (Bedford) and M1 junction 13 near Marston Moretaine, as floodwater is being pumped clear.
Significant travel disruption and property damage have affected local residents, with emergency services working to manage the situation.
In Hertfordshire, councils and emergency services responded to flooding by closing roads and taking measures to ensure public safety.
About 385 properties were flooded across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and neighbouring counties, contributing to ongoing challenges for affected residents.
Flood warnings and alerts remain in place across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, with risks of further flooding in the area.
Meanwhile Woburn in Bedfordshire, has become the wettest place in the UK this month, recording an astonishing 227.2mm of rainfall—over 400% above normal.
The rainfall has not only exceeded Woburn’s expected autumn average but also marks its wettest month on record since 1940.
Due to the severe weather, Sharnbrook Academy in Bedfordshire has closed its doors to all students today, (27th September), as three out of four routes into the village are currently blocked.
The ongoing rain, along with existing flood warnings, has made it unsafe for many staff and students to travel to school.
Lincroft Academy in Oakley has also announced its closure for the day due to flooded travel routes into the area.
In addition, the A505 Baldock Bypass has seen an overturned vehicle, although the driver is safe and awaiting recovery.
Emergency crews have also been deployed to Paula Radcliffe Way (A6) north of Bedford, where flooding has closed the road in both directions. In Bromham, Oakley Road is closed due to emergency works by UK Power Networks.
For those affected by flooding, Shefford Town Council has opened an assistance centre at Shefford House, 15 High Street, Shefford, and another assistance centre is available at Meadow Way Community Centre in Leighton Buzzard.
Residents in need of immediate help are advised to contact the Fire and Rescue Service at 999 if the flooding poses a danger to life.
The rain is expected to clear during Friday leaving conditions much colder on Saturday.