Improving picture but further flooding impacts expected in England following Storm Claudia

The Environment Agency is warning that while weather conditions are now more settled, ongoing river flooding impacts remain likely following Storm Claudia.

The Met Office's rain and wind warnings have now expired, and today is expected to be more settled. However, the recent heavy rainfall associated with Storm Claudia has led to widespread disruption, and flood risk remains in place across parts of England. Ongoing river flooding impacts are still probable throughout today, with residual minor flooding on some larger rivers expected to continue through to Tuesday.

As of 11:55am on Saturday, there are 58 Flood Warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 150 Flood Alerts, meaning flooding is possible.

To date, the Environment Agency is reporting that 20 properties have flooded as a result of Storm Claudia, including some in Cumbria affected by earlier rainfall. More than 12,000 properties have been protected by flood defences and Environment Agency interventions so far.

EA officers are out on the ground today to clear debris from trash screens, inspect assets and continue to erect temporary defences if required.

Joe Cuthbertson, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

Our sympathies are with the people who have sadly experienced flooding over recent days. Whilst this has only affected a small number of homes, it is no less devastating for those impacted and our officers will work with communities to support them.

Following heavy rainfall it can take many days for river levels to fall and surface water to clear. Across large parts of England there are likely to be minor impacts and Environment Agency teams are on the ground, operating flood defences, checking assets, and supporting local authorities.

We continue to urge people not to drive through flood water - it is often deeper than it looks, and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

Please search 'check my flood risk', sign up for free flood warnings, and follow the latest updates from @EnvAgency on X.

Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

My heart goes out to everyone affected by the flooding caused by Storm Claudia, particularly those whose homes and businesses have been impacted.

The weather may be more settled, but there remains a risk of ongoing river flooding. I am in regular contact with the Environment Agency on their response, and their teams - together with local authorities and the emergency services - are working hard on the ground to support communities and reduce further impacts.

I urge the public to continue following local advice, avoid driving through flood water, and stay prepared by signing up for flood warnings and keeping up to date with the latest information from @EnvAgency on X.

Across the country, Environment Agency officers are working round the clock checking flood defences, clearing debris and erecting temporary barriers.

We continue to monitor forecasts and impacts on water levels across the country. We urge the public to check their flood risk, get flood warnings and to consider the weather before travelling.

People can check their flood risk, get free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation, and follow @EnvAgency on X for the latest flood updates.