FLOODS UPDATE: Environment Agency warning of more rain

Agency staff continue to work around the clock with the emergency services in flood-hit communities following the recent extreme rainfall that fell across the south-east earlier this week.

EA teams are concentrating their efforts on clearing trash screens, closing flood gates, operating flood storage areas, removing debris from known hotspots and warning and informing the public about the possibility of flooding.

Currently one flood warning and eight flood alerts are in force for rivers across the region, meaning that flooding is still possible.

Peter Quarmby, EA south-east flood and coastal risk manager, said: “We have seen exceptional rainfall in the region over the past few days and have seen the devastating effects that flooding can cause. Our thoughts are with those who have been affected.

“We are focusing all efforts in working in areas that have been affected by flooding over the past few days to lower river levels and will continue to work alongside our emergency partners to assist flooded communities with immediate response and recovery.

“Latest forecasts indicate that heavy rainfall is again expected to cross the south-east on Friday and into the weekend. We urge everyone to remain vigilant ahead of further rainfall tomorrow and over the weekend. We are monitoring the weather forecasts very closely and the possibility remains that we could issue further flood alerts in response to any significant rainfall.”