River in Cornwall on flood alert following 24 hours of heavy rainfall

The Environment Agency says low lying land and roads are at risk

Author: Sarah YeomanPublished 29th Dec 2021
Last updated 29th Dec 2021

A flood alert has been issued for the Upper River Tamar following 24 hours of heavy rainfall.

The Environment Agency says the river level is rising with low lying land and roads at risk.

It means flooding is possible for Bude, Helebridge, Bridgerule, Canworthy Water, Launceston and Yeolmbridge across the day on Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "Flooding is possible now and throughout the day on Wednesday 29th December.

"Over the last 24 hours we have seen heavy rainfall and the River Tamar is now rising. Further rain is forecast through Wednesday morning, expected levels suggest that there will be flooding to low lying land and roads close to the river at Tamarstone Bridge throughout the rest of the day.

"We expect the river to remain high throughout Wednesday, though no flooding to properties is currently forecast. Take care near the areas of concern and monitor your local weather conditions.

"We are monitoring river levels and have staff in the area checking for and clearing blockages. This message will be updated on Wednesday evening or earlier if the situation changes."

South West weather forecast for the rest of the week:

Today:

A wet start this morning, but the rain quickly clearing, allowing some brighter skies to develop. It will however stay rather cloudy around the coasts with drizzle and fog over the hills. Rather windy but very mild in any brightness. Maximum temperature 16 °C.

Tonight:

This evening will start dry with some clear spells in the east, but further rain will move in from the southwest, giving a damp night for most. Remaining breezy. Mild. Minimum temperature 11 °C.

Thursday:

Thursday will be a rather cloudy and damp day with the most persistent rain across the moors. Remaining breezy but also mild. Maximum temperature 15 °C.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Largely dry and very mild on New Year's Eve. Spells of rain then return on New Year's Day and Sunday, with winds increasing, although remaining mild for early January.

Source: Met Office

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