Reading’s village of Mortimer is grappling with floodwaters, rendering several roads unpassable due to Storm Ciarán’s torrential downpours. The Environment Agency has broadcasted flood alerts throughout Berkshire as the storm is projected to unleash winds of up to 90mph on the southeast.
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The agency has marked out a ‘low’ risk of flooding for the region but pointed out specific areas likely to confront the brunt of overflowing waterways and inundated properties and streets. Critical areas include the vicinity of Lower River Loddon, River Blackwater, River Ock spanning from Watchfield to Abingdon, Letcombe Brook close to Wantage, and the stretch of River Pang between East Ilsley and Pangbourne.
An official statement from the Environment Agency reads, “The flooding threat escalates to a low level. Potential runoff due to heavy rains, combined with blockages in drains and overflowing rivers, may inundate properties and roads.”
UK Wide Impact of Storm Ciarán
Across the UK, the storm’s aftermath is evident with over 80 flood warnings activated as Storm Ciarán advances north, having already impacted southern England. The Environment Agency, in a recent update, stated that 82 regions in the country are now under potential flood threat, a significant rise from 54 areas reported earlier in the day.
Dorset witnessed a significant upheaval when a holiday park had to facilitate an urgent evacuation as static homes were overwhelmed by water. Here, firefighters employed inflatable boats to conduct rescue operations. The AA has issued advisories cautioning drivers against venturing into severely affected regions in southern England due to extensive disruptions across roads and railways.
The storm’s might was also felt in the education sector as several schools nationwide remained shut. Thousands found themselves without power following fierce gusts clocking up to 80mph that shook the country through the night and into Thursday morning.
Critical Alert: Potential Flooding at Lower River Loddon
Updated: 1:58 pm, 30 October 2023
Residents around the Lower River Loddon—including areas of Swallowfield, Arborfield, Shinfield, Barkham, Lower Earley, Sindlesham, Winnersh, Woodley, Hurst, and Waltham-St-Lawrence—are advised to be vigilant. There’s a potential for flooding in this vicinity.
Local inhabitants are urged to keep an eye on water levels and prevailing weather conditions. It’s recommended to steer clear of flood-prone areas and low-lying footpaths. Those with a flood contingency plan should consider implementing it.
This alert has been auto-generated due to rising river or tidal levels during the ongoing industrial action, as determined by the Environment Agency Flood Warning Officers.
Photos & Video by Paul King
