‘Shock’ after Storm Babet makes waves in Mansfield as district hit by …
A still image of footage shared by resident Wayne Edwards, of two boys riding across Nottingham Road on an air bed. (Photo: Wayne Edwards)
The UK faced strong winds and heavy rain as Storm Babet[1] swept in from across the Atlantic, resulting in flooding across the district.
The Met Office[2] issued a rare red weather alert for parts of the country – warning of a “risk to life”.
Amber and yellow weather warnings were in place for parts of Mansfield and Nottinghamshire.
These photos of the A617 Beck Lane flooded were sent to us by Dylan James. (Photo: Dylan James)
Despite the warnings, many residents were not quite prepared for Storm Babet, which saw main roads closed after rivers burst their banks.
As of Friday, October 20 – Nottinghamshire Council reported dozens of road closures, including Mill Lane, Kirkby; Rufford Road junction A614, Rufford, and Park Lane, Selston.
The A617, Beck Lane near The Fox And Crown, was also closed in both direction due to severe flooding with police on the scene.
Other roads in the area had “significant standing water” but were still deemed “passable” so drivers were warned to proceed with care.
Waves were spotted on Nottingham Road/Portland Street area - near Titchfield Park. Photo sent in by Philip Mitchell. (Photo: Philip Mitchell)
Frequent flooding updates were shared by the council via www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/planning-and-environment/flooding-help-and-advice[3]
A spokesperson for the council said: “Please never ignore flood warning and road closure signs and don't risk driving through flood water.”
Mainline train services between Nottingham and London were also affected by flooding and a subsequent landslip.
Following the storm, there was significant damage to railway infrastructure, with track and signalling cables underwater and damage caused.
Flooding seen in Pleasley Vale, affecting the family-run business Bladen Box & Display. (Photo: Tracey Bladen)
Network Rail had teams out across the routes inspecting the damage, and carrying out essential repairs.
As of Monday, October 23, rail services in Nottinghamshire were running as normal once again after a weekend of disruptions.
There were 40 flood warnings in place for Friday, October 20, and Saturday, October 21 – with low areas and agricultural land most at risk.