The Environment Agency has cautioned drivers that just 30 cm (12 in) of water can sweep their cars away, following heavy rainfall that led to over 60 flood warnings across England. Disruptions included closed rail services and the M5 motorway in Gloucestershire.
Currently, the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for heavy rain affecting southern England and Wales, particularly in the Midlands.
As of 8 am Friday, the Environment Agency reported 66 flood warnings and 121 flood alerts. Caroline Douglass, the agency’s executive director for flood and coastal erosion, urged motorists to avoid driving through flooded areas.
On BBC Radio 4’s Today program, she emphasized, “Don’t risk driving through flood water; it only takes 30 cm to float your car—about half the height of your tires.” She noted that many drivers underestimate the danger, thinking their heavy vehicle is immune to being swept away.
Douglass highlighted the agency’s concern over flooding in the Midlands due to recent heavy thunderstorms saturating the ground. With more widespread winter rainfall expected, these areas are likely to be significantly impacted.
The Met Office warns that the wet weather could lead to hazardous driving conditions, road closures, and flooding of homes and businesses, potentially isolating communities. Avon fire and rescue services are assisting those stranded on the M5 due to flooding.
Currently, the M5 is closed northbound between Junctions 16 and 14 and southbound between Junctions 14 and 15 as emergency services address the situation. Local councils in Northamptonshire and Hertfordshire have reported road closures and are taking measures to ensure public safety.
In Gloucestershire, Tewkesbury borough council has been distributing sandbags to residents to protect their homes.
National Rail has also warned that train services in England and Wales may be disrupted, with no trains to and from Aberystwyth until 1 pm and blockage on the Ledbury to Hereford line.
