Storm Bram: Flood alert for Wolverhampton, Halesowen, Bewdley and nearby communities
There is a flood alert for Wolverhampton, Halesowen, Bewdley and nearby areas due to heavy rain in the wake of Storm Bram.
Communities are being urged to wrap up warm and put safety first as Storm Bram brings high winds and rain to much of the region including Wolverhampton, Halesowen, Bewdley and neighbouring towns.
The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for Smestow Brook in the Black Country and South Staffordshire, and River Stour which flows from Halesowen, Kidderminster to Stourport-on-Severn, warning communities to be prepared.
"Rising river levels today may lead to flooding on December 9. Flooding may affect low lying land and roads around Halesowen, Stourbridge. Wombourne, Kingswinford and Kinver.
"We are closely monitoring the situation.
Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and low lying roads near rivers,which may be flooded," its website stated.
"Further rainfall is forecast over the next 48 hours which may see river levels rise further. We are closely monitoring the situation.
Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water."
Low lying areas include Dog Lane in Bewdley and the Stourport near the River Severn.
The Met Office posted on X: "@metoffice Hold onto your hats. #StormBram will continue to bring strong winds for all this afternoon.
"Further heavy rain is expected too, especially across northern parts of the country, but those in the south may see a few breaks to sunshine."
Meanwhile Birmingham Airport has issued a warning for passengers travelling on flights today as Storm Bram arrives.
There is no amber Met Office weather warning for the West Midlands, but the airport has urged passengers to check with their airline for any disruption to flights.
A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport said: “Please be aware of weather disruption today and check with your airline for any disruption to your flight.
“For your airline contact details, you can view our Airline Directory here: orlo.uk/epJEr”
Anna Bowles, Head of Consumer at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “If a flight is delayed due to adverse weather conditions, airlines have a duty to look after their passengers, which can include providing food and drink, as well as accommodation if people are delayed overnight.
“We expect airlines to proactively provide passengers with information about their rights when flights are disrupted.
“We have guidance on cancellations and flight disruption published on the Civil Aviation Authority website.”
