Greyfriars, Lower Bullingham, Leintwardine and Walford residents and businesses asked to prepare for flooding
The Environment Agency has issued five flood alerts for Herefordshire meaning “flooding is possible – be prepared”. The alerts cover the River Wye, River Lugg, River Arrow, River Frome and Upper Teme.
Forecast information currently suggests that parts of Herefordshire may be looking at similar river levels to those experienced in October 2019.
It is expected that the Greyfriars area of Hereford will experience flooding on Saturday evening with Wye levels predicted to reach between 5.2m – 5.5m. Barriers are still in place at the Old Wye Bridge. Pumps are ready to be deployed for Hampton Bishop if required, and properties in Leintwardine and Walford may also be affected. Residents in these areas are advised to move possessions and valuables off the ground or to safety. Property flood protection products should be activated, such as flood barriers and air brick covers. Residents should have a bag ready with vital items like medicines and insurance documents.
Flooding may also disrupt the county’s road networks, with the A4110 and A4113 near Leintwardine, A438 at Letton, and Holme Lacy Road and Watery Lane in Hereford all expected to experience flooding. Repair works to the B4399 Holme Lacy Causeway have been withdrawn in anticipation of the floods.
All partners are working together to keep people safe and plans have been put in place for the coming days. Emergency response partners including Herefordshire Council, West Mercia Police, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, Environment Agency and health partners are working to support residents and protect the most vulnerable.
Please take time to plan your journey. Roads may be impassable so please respect any road closures and diversions as they are in place to keep you safe. Please do not venture close to swollen rivers or floodwater and follow official flood advice.
Herefordshire Council is co-ordinating all official information such as road closures, live updates and messages from partner agencies. Follow @HfdsCouncil on Facebook and Twitter or www.herefordshire.gov.uk
Do not enter flood water or put yourself at unnecessary risk. If your home has been flooded and there is no threat to life, dial 01432 260000. If you are in danger, always call 999.