Waves crash against the pier wall at Tynemouth on the North East coast of England
(PA)
Dozens of flood alerts and warnings have been issued across the UK as the country braces for Storm Bella, which is expected to bring severe gales and heavy downpours on Boxing Day.
It comes as parts of the country are already struggling with recent wet weather and flooding. On Christmas Day, more than 1,300 households in properties along the River Great Ouse in Bedfordshire were advised to evacuate their homes as water levels rose.
According to the Met Office, 15-25mm of rain is likely to fall in Wales and south-west England, and up to 40-60mm over some hills. Further rain and strong winds are expected on Sunday and Monday, which could cause travel disruption and “danger to life” in more badly affected areas.
Red sky in the morning…
Weather watchers across the country have been posting images of the sky this morning, before Storm Bella hits.
Many quoted the old adage: “Red sky in the morning, shepherds’ warning.”
Kate Ng26 December 2020 10:15
Police urge residents in Bedfordshire to evacuate due to flood risk
Residents living along the River Great Ouse in Bedfordshire were told to leave their homes ahead of Storm Bella, which is due to arrive today.
The named storm comes after a period of already-heavy rain that caused banks to burst and waterways to swell across the country.
Bedfordshire Police “strongly urged” residents living near the river to seek alternative accommodation due to fears of flooding and 60-70mph winds on the coast, reports my colleague Vincent Wood.
Kate Ng26 December 2020 10:00
‘Severe’ flood warnings issued
The Environment Agency has issued three “severe” flood warnings, which means there is potential for “danger to life” in these areas:
Cogenhoe Mill Caravan Site in Northamptonshire
River levels have peaked upstream in the River Nene catchment due to heavy rain over the past few days, and flood water is still making its way down the catchment.
Deep, fast-flowing river water is continuing to flood Cogenhoe Mill Caravan Site, which has been evacuated.
There continues to be severe risk to live due to deep flood water, floating debris and loss of utility services across the site.
River Nene at Billing Aquadrome and nearby business parks in Great Billing
This site has been evacuated, but flood water is still making its way down the River Nene catchment.
The Environment Agency urges people to avoid contact with flood water and to follow instructions of the Emergency Services.
Wider area at risk from River Great Ouse at Bedford
River levels at Bedford remain high and steady, but further rain is expected over 27-28 December.
The following areas will likely be affected by flooding: Riverside Close, Ford End Road, Cauldwell Walk, Commercial Road, Horne Lane, River Street, Palgrave Road, Cauldwell Street, Cardington Road, Kingsway, Nicholls Road, Goodmayes Close, Tennyson Road, Chapel Close, Bury Walk and Goldington Road.
On Christmas Day, people living alone the River Great Ouse were told to leave their homes ahead of Storm Bella.
Please check flood warnings and alerts here.
Kate Ng26 December 2020 09:52
Good morning, and a Happy Boxing Day to all. Welcome to The Independent’s liveblog following the latest developments as Storm Bella is due to hit the UK.
Kate Ng26 December 2020 09:43
