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Extensive flooding due to heavy rain causing major river surges in the UK
Severe storms and prolonged rain in the UK and Europe have led to widespread flooding, with approximately 1,000 homes affected, major incidents declared, and disruptions to transportation.
An aerial view shows properties surrounded by floodwater, in the aftermath of Storm Henk, on an island in the River Thames at Henley-on-Thames, Britain, January 5, 2024. REUTERS/Toby Melville
The recent successive storms that occurred over the weeks culminated prolonged rain that began on Thursday. As the saturated ground failed to absorb excess water, the heavy rain caused many rivers and waterways in England and Wales to overflow leading to lots of flooding.
Other parts of Europe have also endured flooding in recent days, further compounding the crisis. One river that was particularly affected is the River Trent in central England, prompting the local authority to declare a major incident. In addition, London’s fire service was forced to assist around 50 individuals to safety late on Thursday after a canal in the eastern part of the capital overflowed.
Caroline Douglass, the director responsible for flood management at the Environment Agency, spoke about the gravity of the situation in an interview with the BBC. She stated, “We have woken up to, as many people will see, a very wet situation across the country.”
Douglass revealed that approximately 1,000 homes have already been flooded, further amplifying the impact of the disaster. Additionally, Great Western Railways confirmed that services on multiple lines in southern parts of the country had been closed due to the flooding. Moreover, road closures were implemented in the worst affected areas to ensure public safety.
Although it is anticipated that more rain will fall on Friday, the intensity is expected to be somewhat reduced compared to the overnight deluge. Meteorologists forecast drier weather in the following days, providing some respite from the ongoing crisis.
