23/2/22: Severe flood warnings alert
23 February 2022
Message from West Mercia Police Road Safety Team for anyone travelling north of Herefordshire this evening:
“The Environment Agency has two severe flood warnings still in place today (Wednesday 23 Feb) at Ironbridge and Bewdley on the River Severn alongside numerous warnings and alerts across the Midlands, which will continue to affect driving routes throughout the week. Drivers are urged to take extra care and keep up to date on social media and with local radio stations for news regarding any road closures.
“If you come across a road that is flooded DO NOT attempt to drive through the flood water. This not only has the potential to put yourself and other people in serious danger, it could also damage your vehicle and wreck your engine. If driving through larger puddles or smaller areas of standing water, drive slowly and steadily, allow oncoming traffic to pass and always test your brakes after leaving the water. If water has flooded across a section of road it may be difficult to tell exactly how deep it is.
“Please do not ignore road closure signs. They are there for a reason and ignoring them could put yourself and others in serious danger.
“Pedestrians and cyclists are also urged to stick to clear pathways and cycle routes. With many drainage systems overwhelmed by flooding, there is a danger of drain and manhole covers coming loose which would not be visible if covered by flood water.
“Use common sense, plan your route and allow plenty of time. And whether you’re a motorist, pedestrian or cyclist, do not attempt to travel through flood water.”
For more information on current flood alerts, visit the Government website https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/ for flooding updates.