Multi-agency response to Northamptonshire flooding continues

A multi-agency response to the flooding in Northamptonshire continues at pace after a major incident was declared yesterday (November 25) in the county.

Following significant rainfall throughout the weekend as a result of Storm Bert and more rain expected tomorrow (November 27), the Local Resilience Forum, involving Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council and the Environment Agency, continue to work together to coordinate a response which keeps our communities safe.

A severe flood warning, meaning there is a risk to life, remains in place at Billing Aquadrome in Northampton and residents at Yarwell Mill are also being advised to evacuate the area for the time being following Environment Agency advice that water levels there have yet to peak.

West Northamptonshire Council is supporting Billing’s evacuation plans by providing a rest centre at Lings Forum Leisure Centre for those displaced and North Northamptonshire Council has plans in place to offer shelter to Yarwell Mill residents should it be required.

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service assisted in the evacuation of 61 properties at Billing Aquadrome yesterday, and has handed over responsibility to park management. A Water Incident Manager remains on site at Yarwell Mill to ensure residents can be safely evacuated if needed. The Service has also carried out a number of water rescues across the county over the last 24 hours, including assisting people from flooded properties and stranded cars.

Road closures remain in place across the county with continued disruption to public transport including the cancellation of all trains from Northampton station.

Although the past two days has seen much drier weather, the multi-agency response continues to treat the flooding as a major incident with more rain expected overnight and into tomorrow.

The Environment Agency are reporting a significant amount of water in their systems, with river levels peaking over the next 24 hours downstream of Northampton. Any further rain will fall on saturated ground meaning rivers will react quickly.

Superintendent Steve Freeman, who is heading the response to the flooding through the Local Resilience Forum (LRF) said: “As the aftermath of Storm Bert continues to unfold, LRF partners are working together to continue to deliver a comprehensive response across Northamptonshire, ensuring the safety of our communities and putting resources where they are needed, when they are needed.

“Although we have seen sunshine in Northamptonshire for the past couple of days, our response will not become complacent. We are still treating this situation as a major incident and I would encourage all of our residents to keep an eye on our communications over the next few days.

“For the people being asked to evacuate their homes, I do not underestimate the impact this has and I’d like to thank everyone there for their cooperation during what we know is a very worrying and upsetting time for them.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to remind people to abide by the safety measures put in place. We have seen a lot of people trying to drive through road closures or wade through deep flood water. This not only puts your safety at risk but could also put the people rescuing you at risk, as well as resulting in some very costly repairs to your vehicle.

“Finally, I’d like to thank everyone for their patience while we continue to deal with this incident and anyone with any concerns is encouraged to contact the relevant LRF agency who will be happy to help.”

People are still being asked to follow safety advice including checking travel information before setting off, driving appropriately for the road conditions, and being prepared to meet standing water, with motorists warned against entering it or trying to drive through it.

The risk of flooding may remain high into the weekend as the peaks move through the system, therefore it is advised all communities remain alert, be prepared and sign up to receive free flood warnings by calling 0345 988 1188 or visiting www.gov.uk/flood.  

Flood reports can be submitted at:

West Northants: https://www.westnorthants.gov.uk/its-emergency/report-flood

North Northants: https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/flooding

You can report other highways issues to Street Doctor services:

West Northants area: https://www.westnorthants.gov.uk/roads-and-paths-maintenance/report-potholes-or-highway-problem

North Northants area: https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-transport/report-potholes-or-highway-problem

Useful information:

Follow the Met Office for up-to-date weather reports and warnings where you live: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/gcr35qpbd#?date=2024-11-24

Sign up for flood warnings at www.environment-agency.gov.uk and you can find up-to-date warnings and information regarding the floods at https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/

Find out what to do after you’ve experienced flooding here: Flood recovery | West Northamptonshire Council

What to do before or during a flood: What to do before or during a flood – GOV.UK

In an emergency, where life is at risk, please call 999.