Lincolnshire communities step up winter prep as first storm of the season looms
Yellow weather alerts are in place across the county from Wednesday night
Lincolnshire leaders say communities are already taking action to prepare for the winter ahead, ahead of weather warnings for rain and winds from Thursday
The Met Office says a deepening area of low pressure will bring heavy rain and strong winds, with a yellow warning in place across the county.
Rainfall of 20–30mm is widely expected, with up to 50mm in places.
In South Kesteven - where Grantham and Bourne were badly flooded in January - local residents, villages and parish councils have been stepping up preparations.
“Some communities are becoming better equipped. Villages and parish councils have worked hard with agencies to take small actions that add up — hopefully keeping back the waters," said Leader of South Kesteven District Council, Ashley Baxter.
Experts warn that extreme weather events like heavy downpours and damaging winds are becoming more frequent as the climate changes.
Councillor Baxter said this means the challenge is only likely to intensify:
“With the impending catastrophe of climate change, winters are getting worse. The impact of severe weather is becoming more of a problem each year.”
Several local bodies are calling for more long-term investment in flood defences in Lincolnshire, warning that without it, communities will face mounting costs and disruption each winter.
Councils are urging residents to stay alert to the latest weather updates and take precautions where needed.