Rutland County Council issues warning over possible flooding
It follows weeks of dry weather
A council has issued a flood warning amid forecasts of heavy rain.
Forecasted thunderstorms on Thursday August 27th have triggered a yellow weather alert from the Met Office, prompting Rutland County Council to advise residents to take precautionary measures.
The council has suggested residents put together a “grab bag” of essential items in case they become cut off, while home owners are advised to check gutters and drains for debris.
According to the Local Resilience Forum, risks of excessive surface water are high after weeks of dry conditions, which have left the ground harder than usual.
“While the sun is shining, it’s easy to forget about the risk of flooding, but after a long dry spell, rainwater can run off dry ground and cause localised flooding which can have devastating impacts”, Kristy Bal said, co-chairperson of the LRF’s people, communities and recovery group.
“That’s why it’s so important to be prepared. By taking action to prepare for flooding, like packing a ‘grab bag’ or checking in with vulnerable neighbours, people are actually making themselves and their communities better prepared for other risks, too.”
More flood guidance and support can be found through the LRF’s Risk Ready Communities programme, where groups of residents identify local risks and formulate response plans.