IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
A Flood Warning has been issued by the Environment Agency.
Flood Warning in force: Bumpstead Brook through Steeple Bumpstead to New England.
Flooding is expected for: Bumpstead Brook from Helions Bumpstead through Steeple Bumpstead and Broad Green to New England.
Immediate action required.
This message has been issued because some flooding to low lying land and riverside areas is likely from now, and into the morning of Thursday 21st October. River levels are reacting quickly, and rising sharply in response to rainfall. Areas most at risk are Smiths Green, Helions Rd, Water Lane, the bottom of Church Street, North Street, Blois Road, the Endway and the Blois Meadows Business Centre in Steeple Bumpstead, and waterside properties in Broad Green. The forecast is for rain to clear over the next few hours and to stay dry into Thursday. Be ready to take action to protect your property if flooding is expected. We are monitoring the situation and not expecting the situation to escalate. We will update this message by 6pm today, Thursday 21st October.
What you should consider doing now
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* Act on your business flood plan if you have one.
* Move your staff and customers to a safe place.
* Move cars or other vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.
* Use flood protection equipment, such as flood barriers, air brick covers and pumps to protect your property. Any equipment should be professionally supplied and installed to help reduce the impact of flood water.
* Move stock and other valuable items upstairs or to a safe place in your building.
*Turn off gas, electricity and water mains supplies before flood water starts to enter your building. Never touch an electrical switch if you are standing in water.
* If it is safe to do so, make sure neighbouring businesses are aware of the situation and offer help to anyone who may need it.
* Listen to the advice of the emergency services and be ready to evacuate your building if told to do so.
* Avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water. 30 cm of fast-flowing water can move a car and 6 inches can knock an adult off their feet.
* Flood water is dangerous and may be polluted. Wash your hands thoroughly if you've been in contact with it.
To check the latest information for your area
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* Visit the GOV.UK website to see the current flood warnings, view river and sea levels or check the 5-day flood risk forecast: https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/target-area/051FWFEF1A
* Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 313600.
* Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.
* Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.