Flood alert for Weaver as storms blow in

Local rivers are on 'Flood Alert' status today as heavy rains and high winds are forecast throughout the day.

The Environment Agency has issued a 'Flood Alert' for the Weaver Catchment which includes the rivers Weaver, Ducklow and their tributaries.

The EA warning, issued at 15:37 yesterday, said: "Heavy rains coud result in some surface water flooding and minor river flooding to low lying land and roads."

Gusts of wind, travelling at speeds of up to 80 miles per hour, are predicted reach the North Shropshire/South Cheshire areas in the early hours of this morning.

In addition to the wind, there is also likely to be a considerable amount of rain and a number of weather warnings and flood alerts are in place.

Police forces and other organisations, including the Fire Service, Environment Agency and Local Authorities are currently monitoring the situation.

If severe weather does strike, then drivers are advised not to make unnecessary journeys. Chief Superintendent Amanda Blakeman of Shropshire Police said: "It's likely that the bad weather will cause major disruption on the roads during tomorrow morning's rush hour, when the wind speeds are expected to be at their highest."

"Forecasters predict the high winds could cause trees and power lines to come down and also say there's a danger high-sided vehicles, caravans and trailers could be blown over. "

For more information call Floodline on 0845 988 1188, select option 1 and enter Quickdial number 0223342. River level monitoring sensors are placed in waters at key points and recorded at 15 minute intervals.

For information about what to do before and after a flood strikes visit the Environment Agency website

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