Following Saturday’s flooding update, the general picture for Oxfordshire is improving but there remains 24 flood warnings and 30 flood alerts in the county. Water is moving downstream heading from Oxford to other parts of the Thames Valley and the expected highest levels of the Thames have now been reached between Henley and Marlow going through Hurley. The forecast for dry weather remains the same over the next few days with the potential for light, possibly snowy, showers in some areas.
Please be aware that Abingdon Road remains closed. A diversion is in place on Thames Street towards Folly Bridge and Abingdon Road (apart from local access). The situation is being closely monitored and firefighters are still active pumping water away but the water has not receded enough to reopen the road. Access can be gained through the High Street bus gates until the water levels are again at passable levels.
Thameside South and Station Road in Henley also closed yesterday and remain closed as water levels rose further on the stretches of the Thames through the town and nearby areas. Approximately 15 roads are closed in the county, mainly in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse.
The gritters were out in force last night and are going out again tonight from 7pm as temperatures have dropped. All partners are encouraging motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to take extra care when travelling given that the presence of so much standing water will exacerbate ice hazards. You are kindly asked to support this messaging as well as encourage residents to check on their neighbours.
As well as some partners in the Thames Valley responding to the flood risks and warnings, with some yet to see the highest impact, we are also now planning for recovery. Both an Oxfordshire working group and a Thames Valley resilience group will be set up over the next couple of days to facilitate this. However, it is clear that water levels will remain high and flood barriers and other resources may still be required in the county until the end of the week.
A reminder that people can report their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation from the Environment Agency at gov.uk/check-if-youre-at-risk-of-flooding. You are advised to direct residents to this website and to X @EnvAgencySE for timely updates as well as the Met Office for weather warnings and advice. Residents can call the Environment Agency’s flooding hotline for advice and support at any time, seven days a week, on 0345 988 1188. Our news webpage also contains helpful information and signposting and is being updated regularly.