Plea to take care in flood waters around South Wiltshire
The Council's asking us to be prepared for more heavy rain
There's a plea from Wiltshire Council to be prepared for the risk of flooding across the county.
They've put out advice following heavy rain over the weekend, a very wet last few months and more heavy rain forecast this week.
Anyone who may be at risk of river, surface water or groundwater flooding is asked to ensure they have a personal flood plan, that know what to do in the event of a flood, and that they are signed up for Environment Agency flood alerts.
Current flood alerts
One flood warning is currently in place in Wiltshire, for the River Avon between Salisbury flowing towards Ringwood.
There's also less serious flood alerts for the Avon, Bourne and Wylye rivers in South Wiltshire, as well as for groundwater flooding around Pitton, West Tytherley and into Nether Wallop and Broughton in West Hampshire.
Wiltshire Council say they work closely with the Environment Agency, water companies, and town and parish councils through its network of flood wardens to ensure communities are as resilient as possible, and to help them prepare effectively.
Flood wardens create and maintain a parish’s flood plans, listing areas of high risk and vulnerable people within the parish, and can access flood resilience equipment such as sandbags, gel sacks, signs and pumps to support their local community.
Cllr Caroline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Flooding, said:
“Climate change is bringing wetter weather to Britain, and in Wiltshire we are seeing increased rainfall in the county, more weather warnings and more properties at risk of flooding.
“It is vitally important that people are adequately prepared and know what to do in the event of a flood. People should ensure they are registered for Environment Agency flood alerts, and they can notify us of any flooding incidents or weather emergencies through our MyWilts app or website.
“We have been working closely with town and parish councils and flood wardens to ensure they are fully prepared and equipped with emergency supplies such as sandbags. However, we must not become complacent regarding the risk of flooding.”