Flooding Alert for Yarmouth, Walcott, King’s Lynn, Salthouse & Wells

By
Trevor Sherwood
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Emergency Planners from the police, district councils and the county council, the Environment Agency and Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service are currently meeting to discuss the possibility of floods and the effect it may have on the county. 

The region is currently on a “Flood Alert” with floods a strong possibility. Residents and business owners are urged to be prepared and are asked to monitor the threat level by visiting the Environment Agency website, calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or by following #NorfolkFloods on Twitter and Facebook.

 There are two times on Friday 13 January when specific locations are at greatest risk of flooding.

These are between 7am and 10am tomorrow morning and 8pm to 10pm tomorrow evening (approximate timings). The Environment Agency is anticipating flooding in the following areas:

• Yarmouth

• Walcott

• King’s Lynn

• Salthouse

• Wells

If the threat level changes and evacuation is needed any household affected will be contacted in person, according to the local flood management plan.

Police have also warned drivers to take extra care and allow extra time for journeys due to winter conditions tomorrow with snow, ice and high winds expected tomorrow. Drivers are advised to avoid travel unless necessary.

 The following advice is offered for those preparing for evacuation

 ·  Stay calm and do not panic.

· Police officers and / or other officials will try to visit all properties at risk to advise on the requirement to evacuate.

· If road conditions permit, move vehicles to unaffected areas for example higher ground and ask friends / family if you can share their parking facilities.

· You will hear about your evacuation point for transport and the location of the reception centre either verbally or by a leaflet.

· Try to check that any elderly / vulnerable family members or neighbours know about the evacuation.

· Try to inform family members / friends as to where you are evacuating.

· Listen to the advice of the authorities and follow any instructions to leave the property.

· Take special foods and medicines.

· Switch off gas and electricity.

· If possible, move electrical equipment and furniture upstairs.

· Any furniture that you cannot move upstairs, try to raise well off the floor.

· Do not forget to lock all doors and windows.

· Block doorways and air bricks – sandbags are not available via local authorities

· Avoid walking and driving through floodwater, there could be hidden hazards.