Heavy wind and rain to lash county

Malvern Editorial 7^th Feb, 2014 Updated: 20^th Oct, 2016 0

RESIDENTS across Worcestershire have been warned to take care this weekend amidst a severe weather warning from the Met Office.

According to the service, which has issued a yellow warning, the rain will start about 9pm tonight and be more or less continuous for 48 hours, eventually clearing at midnight on Sunday (February 9).

There will also be high winds, ranging between 15mph and 26mph.

Following the warnings, Worcestershire County Council staff have been out and about trying to sort out highways issues, such as clearing drains and gullies.

The authority’s teams have also been working with the Environment Agency to co-ordinate road closures where they are needed.

People are urged to be aware of possible localised flooding and general disruption and motorists are advised not to drive through floodwaters because of hidden hazards.

Those who spot any problems on the road can report it on www.worcestershire.gov.uk – the county council’s website.

West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is also urging residents to take care and stay away from flood control areas, rivers, streams and other waterways.

WMAS Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, Craig Cooke, said: “We would also advise motorists to exercise extreme caution and not attempt driving through flooded roads.

“Not heeding the many safety warnings puts lives at risk, including ambulance staff and other emergency service personnel called to provide a service in these most challenging of conditions.”

The public have been reminded that 999 should only be called for life-threatening emergencies.

For less urgent cases of illness, injury or pre-existing conditions, people should consider alternative medical assistance such as their GP, NHS 111, walk-in centre or pharmacist.