More than 1,800 properties have already been affected by floodwaters due to saturated ground, according to the Environment Agency (EA). The agency has issued a warning, stating that more properties are expected to flood over the next five days as river levels rise and more rain is anticipated. It has been reported that prolonged wet weather and intense rainfall have led to the flooding, and the impact of high water levels is likely to continue, especially around the rivers Trent, Severn, and Thames. Travel disruptions are expected due to building flooding, with local groundwater flooding possible in the South of England, Yorkshire, and the Humber.
On Sunday morning, a total of 192 flood warnings and 207 flood alerts were issued in England, and one warning was in place in Wales. The forecast indicated dry but cold weather. Katherine Smith, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, warned that significant river flooding impacts are still expected in the coming days across parts of the River Thames in Oxfordshire, as well as the River Trent near Nottingham and the River Severn, including Gloucester.
The floods have caused a political row, with Liberal Democrat spokeswoman for housing and communities Helen Morgan calling on Rishi Sunak to visit affected areas. Labour has accused the government of disregarding flood warnings.
In a joint announcement, Communities Secretary Michael Gove and Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said that flood-hit communities can apply for funding to help them through the “extreme challenges” brought about by the rains and strong winds. The floods have also impacted travel around the country, with the Great Western Railway (GWR) closing some tracks following flooding near South Gloucestershire.
The floods have had personal and financial impacts on individuals and businesses. David Walters, who created Cresslands Touring Park in South Lincolnshire, said it was “heartbreaking” to see the damage caused by the flooding. An assessment of the premises will take place on Monday, with the cost expected to exceed £20,000. Additionally, Edith Cameron, who owns Cotswold Canoe Hire in Lechlade-on-Thames, Gloucestershire, shared footage of her business affected by flooding, noting the devastating impact of the situation.