This morning at about 0900 the government environmental agency issued 3 “Be Prepared Level” flood alerts for the Wokingham Borough. We attended the River Loddon at Swallowfield to see for ourselves the rising water that has caused flooding across the fields in the area
Flood alert for Lower River Loddon
Flooding is possible in this area. Monitor local water levels and weather conditions. Avoid using low lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one.
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The Environment Agency Flood Warning System has issued this message based on rising river or tidal levels. We are temporarily automating our messages due to industrial action.
The River Loddon at Swallowfield
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Get flood warnings by phone, text or email.
Flood alert area: Lower River Loddon including Swallowfield, Arborfield, Shinfield, Barkham, Lower Earley, Sindlesham, Winnersh, Woodley, Hurst and Waltham-St-Lawrence
The Loddon is a habitat for diverse wildlife. Former gravel workings have become Loddon Nature Reserve and Dinton Pastures Country Park. A section of it is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to rare populations of bulbs and pondweed. Improvements made to the river under the Water Framework Directive, have included the installation of a fish bypass at Arborfield Mill for migratory species including salmon.
Flood alert for Emm Brook
Flooding is possible in this area. Monitor local water levels and weather conditions. Avoid using low lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one. The Environment Agency Flood Warning System has issued this message based on rising river or tidal levels. We are temporarily automating our messages due to industrial action.
Flood alert for Cut
Flooding is possible in this area. Monitor local water levels and weather conditions. Avoid using low lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one. The Environment Agency Flood Warning System has issued this message based on rising river or tidal levels. We are temporarily automating our messages due to industrial action.
What to do in a flood
What the flood warnings mean
We issue 3 levels of flood warning:
Flood alert – Prepare
- prepare a bag that includes medicines and insurance documents
- check flood warnings
Flood warning – Act
- turn off gas, water and electricity
- move things upstairs or to safety
- move family, pets and car to safety
Severe flood warning – Survive
- call 999 if in immediate danger
- follow advice from emergency services
- keep yourself and your family safe
All floods are different and you should take advice from the emergency services and your local authority if you’re in a flood.
Words by Nick Marr Photos by Paul King
