South Gloucestershire Council Prepares for Flooding from Storm Claudia

South Gloucestershire Council is taking proactive measures as Storm Claudia approaches, with strong warnings of heavy rain leading to potential flooding across the region. The storm is expected to affect Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire until the end of the day on November 14, 2023. The Met Office has issued alerts, indicating that residents should prepare for possible disruptions, including fast-moving water, travel delays, and power outages.

The council’s Street Care team is on high alert, ready to respond to any flooding issues that may arise. According to the Met Office, rainfall amounts could reach between 40 mm and 60 mm in many areas, with some locations potentially receiving up to 80 mm. The storm’s impact is expected to be intensified by strong easterly winds and thunderstorms later in the day.

Community Safety Measures and Advice

In a message shared on their Facebook page, South Gloucestershire Council emphasized their readiness for surface water flooding. They noted that there are existing weather warnings in place from 6:00 AM on Friday until 6:00 AM on Saturday. The council anticipates that residents could experience flash flooding and challenging driving conditions due to spray and surface water flooding.

“Our Street Care teams are on standby, ready to respond to any issues on our network,” the council stated. “We have a crew continuously filling sandbags in case supplies are needed.” They encouraged residents to report flooding issues online and seek advice through their official website.

The Met Office has advised individuals living in areas under amber rain warnings to take precautions. They recommend avoiding unnecessary travel and stress that it is dangerous to drive, walk, or swim through floodwaters. Residents are urged to call 999 if they encounter fast-flowing or deep water.

Flood Alerts and Ongoing Monitoring

The Environment Agency has issued several flood alerts throughout the county as Storm Claudia progresses. These alerts reflect the potential for significant flooding and disruption, particularly in vulnerable areas.

As the storm develops, the council plans to provide real-time updates on flooding conditions and response efforts. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels to ensure their safety.

In the face of severe weather, community preparedness and responsiveness are essential. South Gloucestershire Council remains committed to addressing any challenges posed by Storm Claudia and ensuring the safety of its residents.