After last summer’s drought, farms could now be hit by flooding
Growers are braced for more weather misery after the Environment Agency (EA) warned of significant flood risk in parts of England.
Current forecasts show conditions are expected to remain unsettled, with further impacts expected across the country. There are currently 89 flood warnings and 150 flood alerts in place across the country, EA reported.
Multiple groundwater flood warnings are now in force in Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire. Groundwater responds slowly and may continue to cause prolonged disruption, the agency added.
The EA said that pumps have been brought online by teams in locations across the Somerset Levels and Moors and continue to run, reducing the impact of flooding and helping to stabilise water levels.
Floods minister Emma Hardy visited Langport in Somerset this week to see the impact of flooding on the local community. She met with EA officers on the ground and heard how teams are operating defences in the area and supporting local residents.
As well as operating the pumps, officers have been clearing vegetation, removing obstructions in rivers, and erecting temporary barriers where needed.
Elsewhere, water levels remain very high in Dorset and Wiltshire and the EA said it is working with the council, water company and emergency responders in response to flooding.
EA teams have also been mobilised across the country to check on other flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels. They have been working around the clock to reduce the risk of flooding and will continue to be out in force over the coming days, the agency stressed.
Significant groundwater flooding remains likely in parts of Dorset and Wiltshire, with minor groundwater impacts probable in Hampshire and West Sussex.
