Flood warnings and alerts issued for Wiltshire after heavy rain

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning in the south of the county which encompasses Warminster, Ludgershall, Amesbury and Salisbury, some of the area which received the most snowfall on Saturday morning (March 2, 2024).

In Warminster, the groundwater level at the Tilshead New borehole has risen to 108.38m above sea level and is forecast to rise to 109 by the weekend.

For reference, the peak level in January was 109.786m.

"Property flooding is expected and sewage systems may become inundated. Residents should deploy any property resilience measures such as pumps, flood barriers and air brick covers," said a spokesperson for the Environment Agency

"Avoid driving through flood water as the bow wave from vehicles can flood adjacent properties.

"Do not lift manhole covers to alleviate local surface water flooding as this may cause toilets further downhill to surcharge."

Westbury is experiencing high water levels as earlier snow has begun to thaw quickly, (Image: Trevor Porter)

Just south of Devizes, a flood warning has also been issued for the Upper Avon near Amesbury.

"River levels are rising steadily at the Upavon East gauge. Residents are strongly urged to take action now," added the spokesperson.

"Start acting on your flood plan if you have one. Remain safe and be aware of your surroundings.

"Plan driving routes to avoid low-lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded, and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water."

Flood warnings and alerts in Wiltshire (Image: Environment Agency)

Although only South Wiltshire has been issued an official warning at this current time, flood alerts are also in place for areas near Trowbridge, Westbury, Melksham, Malmesbury, Chippenham, Lyneham and Marlborough.

In Westbury, water has already been seen pouring out onto the roads as snow melts.

Rivers which currently have high water levels and are continuing to rise include Semington Brook, Clackers Brook, South Brook, the River Avon, the River Marden and Brinkworth Brook.

Residents in these areas, particularly those living near rivers and lakes, have been warned to avoid using low-lying footpaths and plan driving routes to avoid these areas.

Motorists should avoid driving in flooded areas where possible. (Image: Trevor Porter)

"River levels are high but stable at the Fosseway, Brokenborough, Great Somerford and Dauntsey river gauges. A flood alert remains in force for the Bristol Avon, Tetbury Avon, Sherston Avon, Dauntsey Brook," said an Environment Agency spokesperson.

"Further light rainfall is expected through Saturday with drier conditions expected on Sunday, we expect river levels to continue to rise until Sunday morning."

You can keep up to date with all of the latest flood alerts on the UK Government website.