Red and amber flood alerts have been issued for the Bude and Launceston area by the Environment Agency, following heavy rain over the last few days.

Due to heavy rainfall, some residents are being asked to ‘act now’ as ‘flooding is expected’. There are three levels of flood warning which the Environment Agency (EA) are able to issue; a Flood Alert (amber alert) - this means flooding is possible and that residents should prepare to act, a Flood Warning (red alert) – a red alert means that flooding is expected and that those in the area should “act now”, and a Severe Warning (severe alert) – which means that a loss of life is possible.

Residents in the Upper Tamar area, including Bude and Launceston are being told to ‘be prepared’ as flooding is possible. The EA explain that those within the amber alert catchment should “Monitor local water levels and weather conditions. Avoid using low lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one.“

However, River Strat from Bush to Pinch Bridge excluding Stratton have been issued a red alert. the Environment Agency explains: “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.”

Residents are told they should “act now” by doing the following: “Turn off gas, water and electricity; move things upstairs or to safety; move family, pets and car to safety.”

More information about potential flooding and area’s with flood warning’s can be found here.