As the UK recovers from the impact of Storm Bert, which has seen at least five fatalities and widespread flooding, further downpours are expected to follow. Over 120 flood warnings have been issued across England, Scotland and Wales, with the River Nene in Northamptonshire still presenting a ‘danger to life’ warning following a caravan park’s recent submersion for the third time this year. Local residents will continue to sleep in evacuation centres until the waters recede.
While the Environment Secretary maintains that the impacts of flooding should be less severe, the affected regions are set for more rain, particularly south-west and north-west England, as well as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. With a “spell of wet and potentially windy weather” set to hit England and Wales by evening, there is still potential for dangerous flooding conditions to persist.
The humanitarian charity React have been on the ground in flooded Northamptonshire, offering essential supplies to those that have been evacuated. Another charity has continued to offer hot meals to residents in the car park at the Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park. Meanwhile, the UK government has faced criticism over concerns of under-warning of the extreme weather, but affirmed that warnings were issued and lessons will be learned to increase preparedness.
As parts of the UK rebuilds after the aftermath of Storm Bert, businesses such as Becky Lyons’ Pawesome Pet Shop in Chippenham are assessing the damage. A great community spirit has emerged in the wake of the disaster with community members offering to help with clean up efforts, but the extent of damage remains unknown as further rain continues to fall on already soggy ground.
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
