Storm Babet Birmingham: Flood warning, rail disruption & WMAS …

Storm Babet flood warning remains in place in Birmingham as rail services remain disrupted and West Midlands Ambulance Service issues a warning to drivers

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The torrential rain may have eased off – but West Midlands Ambulance Service has issued some important advice for local people in the aftermath of Storm Babet.

Areas of Birmingham were flooded as downpours continued throughout yesterday (Friday, October 20). Bournville, Stirchley and Northfield were particularly affected along with railway lines. One driver was pushed 30 metre down a fast-flowing river in Northfield and there was flooding reported on the Pershore Road near Dogpool Lane. In Bournville one local said: “Looks like Cadbury’s Dairy Milk flowing from Bournville.”

Tragedy struck nearby in Ceobury Mortimer in Shropshire where a man in his 60s was killed after being caught in flash-flooding.

Where is the flood warning in Birmingham?

Severe weather warnings remain in place for parts of England today, including a flood warning from Bourn Brook in Selly Oak.

The Environment Agency issued the warning at 8.14am yesterday (October 20). It says: “Flooding is expected in this area. This means properties are at risk of flooding.

Please take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather and river conditions. Avoid contact with, walking or driving through flood water. Consider activating any property flood protection products you may have.

”Environment Agency Flood Warning Officers set the river or tidal levels that have triggered this message. During industrial action this message has been automatically issued based on rising river or tidal levels. Flood warning area: Bourn Brook at Selly Oak including the Stonehouse Brook at California.”

Storm Babet flooding in Northfield, BirminghamStorm Babet flooding in Northfield, Birmingham
Storm Babet flooding in Northfield, Birmingham

Rail service disruption amind Storm Babet aftermath

Railway lines were also compared to canals as the rain lashed down and services have continued to face disruption today with West MIdlands Railway reporting that lines between Birmingham Snow Hill – Whittocks End and Stratford-upon-Avon are still blocked, along with Walsall Rugely Trent Valley. Services between Birmingham New STreet and Worcestershire Park Way are also facing disruption.

What advice has West Midlands Ambulance Services issued regarding the aftermath of Storm Babet

This afternoon WMAS has urged people to remain indoors, where possible. For people who are venturing out in their cars, they have advised them to stick to main roads – and to refrain from driving through flood water. And if you are driving and are unable to see through your windscreen, WMAS says it is imperative that you take a break.

Storm Babet flooding on West Midlands railway lineStorm Babet flooding on West Midlands railway line
Storm Babet flooding on West Midlands railway line

What advice has West Midlands Ambulance Services issued regarding the aftermath of Storm Babet

This afternoon WMAS has urged people to remain indoors, where possible. For people who are venturing out in their cars, they have advised them to stick to main roads – and to refrain from driving through flood water. And if you are driving and are unable to see through your windscreen, WMAS says it is imperative that you take a break.

What is the weather forecast for Birmingham

The latest weather forecast for Birmingham from the Met Office says there will be rain today, but it will be drier and brighter tomorrow. Here are the full details

Today: Saturday will start rather cloudy with outbreaks of mostly light rain. One or two brighter breaks are possible during the day, although further showery bursts of rain are also likely. The wind will be mostly gentle, although feeling fresh. Maximum temperature 13 °C.

References

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