Met Office issues Midlands flooding warning

HEAVY RAIN and thundery showers are expected to hit Redditch and the rest of the Midlands this evening with the risk of flooding a distinct possiblity.

The West Midlands has been put on amber alert by the Met Office with rain of upto 8mm per hour estimated to fall on the region overnight. Upto 16mm per hour could fall in parts of Bromsgrove on Saturday afternoon alone.

The Environment Agency warned the downpours will be hitting already saturated ground which may lead to widespread disruption from flooding rivers and overwhelmed drains.

Agency workers have been working alongside other emergency crews to check flood defences and clear blockages since the the first deluges of the summer two weeks ago.

Residents have been urged to stay away from any areas that have overflowing water, particularly on roads.

Conditions are expected to settle on Sunday with more rain expected on Monday and Tuesday.

To keep ahead of the weather visit www.metoffice.gov.uk

Worcestershire County Council has also confirmed it has additional staff on standby to respond to highway issues and clear drains and gullies if further heavy rainfall occurs over the next 24 hours.

Jon Fraser, Worcestershire County Council's Highways Customer and Community Manager, said: "The potential for heavy rainfall in Worcestershire could cause some localised flooding issues.

"We'd urge anyone that spots a problem to get in touch with us via www.worcestershire.gov.uk or the Worcestershire Hub on 0845 607 2005 and motorists to take care and temper their driving according to the conditions."

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