Major incident declared in Suffolk amid torrential rain and flooding caused by Storm Babet
Some localised flooding has been reported across the county - as Storm Babet passes over the UK
Last updated 20th Oct 2023
A major incident has been declared in Suffolk, as the county continues to face torrential rain and flooding from Storm Babet.
People are being urged to only travel if absolutely necessary.
A yellow weather warning for rain remains in place covering the entire county, while flood warnings are in place for rivers in Haverhill, Stowmarket, Woodbridge, Hadleigh and Halesworth, along other places.
Dozens of schools across the county either closed early today because of the weather, or decided not to open this morning.
A full list of school closures can be found here.
Jon Lacey, Suffolk’s Chief Fire Officer, said:
"The continuous heavy rainfall across Suffolk is causing severe flooding in several locations but is also making driving conditions more dangerous for everyone.
"We are therefore asking people to travel only where it is absolutely essential – for example collecting a child from school, accessing medical treatment or returning home from work. Reducing non-essential travel means more people stay safe and pressure on the emergency services is reduced.
"Although the Suffolk Resilience Forum will continue to do all it can to help protect our county, everyone needs to take precautions to ensure they do not put themselves in danger.
"We are responding whilst monitoring the situation closely and while the rain is forecast to ease over the weekend, we must all take action to ensure lives are protected."
Several attractions across Suffolk are also closed today because of the weather, including Sutton Hoo and the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary.
Flooding has closed the A1120 at Earl Soham in both directions, although many of the county's roads are seeing issues with standing water.
Highways teams, including Sudbury's Community Wardens, have been out on local roads attempting to clear drains and keep traffic moving.