Flood risk to continue as further rain expected
24th February 2020
The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Fund has released £50,000 from its crisis fund as the Environment Agency warns that significant risk of flooding will remain in England for the next few days.
The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Fund has released £50,000 from its crisis fund as the Environment Agency warns that significant risk of flooding will remain in England for the next few days.
Impacts of river flooding is expected to continue throughout the week, particularly along the River Severn, Wye, Ouse and Trent, while some river flooding is also possible in other parts of northern England, including the lower river Aire, EA says.
As of 1.15pm today (24 February), there are two severe flood warnings for Ironbridge and Shrewsbury, meaning there is an immediate risk to life; 97 flood warnings, meaning that flooding is expected; and 200 flood alerts, meaning that flooding is possible, in areas across the country.
EA is advising people to check their flood risk and be prepared to take action as the situation changes.
England has received over 141 per cent of its average rainfall for February, with some areas experiencing a month’s worth of rain in 24 hours.
Since Storm Dennis began, around 1,000 EA staff have been mobilised on the ground per day to issue flood warnings, operate flood defences and temporary pumps, clear debris from rivers, inspect damaged flood defences and make repairs. Community information officers are also offering advice and assistance to affected communities.
Over 6km of temporary flood barriers have been put up across the country and flood defences have protected over 25,000 properties, EA says.
RABI has released an initial £50,000 in emergency funding to provide grants to farmers affected by extreme weather in England and Wales. CEO Alicia Chivers said: “Having already provided around £75k of emergency grant support to those affected by extreme wet weather this autumn/winter, we know how devastating the impacts are for farmers in both the immediate and longer-term. Simplifying our criteria and application process means we can fast-track immediate assistance to affected farmers.
“These funds, whilst a relatively small element of the help we expect to provide over the
longer-term to those affected, can make a real difference dealing with urgent priorities – and help to alleviate pressing financial worries, allowing farmers to concentrate on dealing with the immediate impacts of the extreme weather.
“RABI understands that the effects of severe weather are both financial and emotional. We will be here to provide support for as long as it is needed by our community. We will also continue to work closely with partner charities and other farming organisations to make sure help is available, both now and on an enduring basis.”
To apply for help, call RABI’s helpline on 0808 281 9490
