Heavy rain prompts flood alerts

Buy photos » Water levels rose at the bridge in Bretford during heavy rain in May. Fresh flood alerts have been issued ahead of this weekend when more downpours are expected. 18.012.024.rug.jg14

FLOOD alerts have been issued for parts of the borough and the county with further downpours expected over the weekend.

Warwickshire Police and the Environment Agency have urged people to keep an eye on the situation, with some areas left to vulnerable to flooding because of the recent wet weather.

Areas at risk are low lying land between Grandborough and Leamington, including Long Itchington, near to the River Leam and the River Itchen.

Also posing a flood risk are low lying areas between Stanford and Rugby, including Lilbourne and Clay Coton, near to the River Swift and Clay Coton brook.

The River Stour in south Warwickshire has also been issued with a flood alert.

Graeme Smith, chair of emergency response group Warwickshire Prepared, said: "Flooding poses serious problems for residents but many of the worst case scenarios are avoidable by being prepared and planning for it.

"Our website gives invaluable tips on being ready for floods and I would encourage residents to have a look and take the steps it advises."

Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/prepared for further information on how to prepare for emergencies, or call 0845 988 1188 to receive free flood warnings.

Where possible, warnings are issued two hours prior to flooding to give those registered time to act to protect themselves and their property.

For further information about how to prepare for flooding and to find out if your home is at risk visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodmidlands or call Floodline on 0845 988 1188.

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