FLOOD WARNING NO LONGER IN FORCE
A Flood Warning has been issued by the Environment Agency for Lower Frome from Dorchester to East Stoke.
Flooding is expected for: Areas in Dorchester, West Stafford, Bockhampton, Lewell, Tincleton, Pallington, Waddock, Moreton, Wool and East Stoke.
Immediate action required.
River levels in the Lower Frome have continued to rise at the Stinsford river gauge as a result of heavy rainfall yesterday and overnight. Consequently, there is an imminent risk of flooding of property, roads and farmland today. We believe there is a possibility of flooding in the areas of Dorchester, West Stafford, Bockhampton, Lewell, Tincleton, Pallington, Waddock, Moreton, Wool and East Stoke.
We expect river levels to remain very high for the next few days. We are closely monitoring the situation and our incident response staff are checking defences and clearing weed screens. Please stay aware in case further warnings are issued and take photographs of any flood damage. This message will be updated tomorrow the 24th November 2019 or as the situation changes.
What you should consider doing now:
* Act on your flood plan if you have one.
* Move your family and pets to a safe place.
* Move your car or other vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.
* Use flood protection equipment, such as flood barriers, air brick covers and pumps to protect your property. Any equipment should be professionally supplied and installed to help reduce the impact of flood water.
* Move important items upstairs or to a safe place in your property, starting with cherished items of personal value that you will not be able to replace (such as family photographs). Next move valuables (such as computers), movable furniture and furnishings.
* You may need to leave your property, so pack a bag with enough items for a few nights away. Include essential items including a torch with spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, home insurance information, water, food, first aid kit and any prescription medicines or baby care items you may need.
* Turn off gas, electricity and water mains supplies before flood water starts to enter your property. Never touch an electrical switch if you are standing in water.
* If it is safe to do so, make sure neighbours are aware of the situation and offer help to anyone who may need it.
* Listen to the advice of the emergency services and be ready to evacuate your property if told to do so. Most evacuation centres will let you bring your pets.
* Avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water. 30 cm of fast-flowing water can move a car and 6 inches can knock an adult off their feet.
* Flood water is dangerous and may be polluted. Wash your hands thoroughly if you’ve been in contact with it.
To check the latest information for your area
* Visit the GOV.UK website to see the current flood warnings, view river and sea levels or check the 5-day flood risk forecast: https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/target-area/111FWFFROL310
* Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 166036.
* Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.
* Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.
