Warwickshire News Mine

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Call to motorists to heed flood warnings

Heavy rain across Warwickshire has seen Warwickshire County Council’s highways team answer 184 emergency call outs to flooding in the last three days.

Colleagues in Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service have also been busy with 200 emergency calls relating to the weather.

And with heavy rain forcast for this week, and the repercussions of some of the problems caused by last week’s downpours still evident, motorists are being called on to take extra time and care while driving.

Heavy delays will be felt throughout this week on the busy A452 between Leamington and Kenilworth, after the side of the road collapsed as a result of the rain. The damage was caused on the stretch between the town centre and Nuffield Hospital roundabout, and as a result the lane has been closed to a single carriageway with temporary traffic lights.

In south Warwickshire a culvert collapsed on the C45 north of Little Morrell and Ashorne, closing the road over the weekend, and this is likely to be closed throughout this week.

Flooding to properties was experienced across parts of Leamington, with Whitnash particularly hard hit.

In the north of the county there was flooding in Polesworth, Water Orton and Coleshill, and the River Anker was on flood alert throughout the weekend.

Acting Deputy County Fire Officer, Glen Ranger said: “A number of people called during the floods concerned about insurance claims. If residents are concerned about any damage to their homes, then please contact your insurance providers directly. The fire service is an emergency service and is there for emergencies only.“

Andrew Savage, Warwickshire County Council’s Operations Service Manager, said: “We are advising motorists to be cautious, particularly on the county’s more rural roads.

“Motorists should not attempt to drive through river water where we have `Road Closed’ signs out. Cars have been written off as a result of trying to cross some flooded areas.”

The latest heavy downpours come as yet another challenge for Warwickshire County Council’s highway teams who have faced a number of issues in recent months including March floods, February snow ad January gales where more than 200 trees were brought down.

Members of the public can help keep the roads safe by calling 01926 4121515 to report potholes, and other highway problems associated with the inclement weather.