Flood warnings for Peterborough as River Nene water levels rise

People wade through floodwater to check boats and property at Orton as the area is completed flooded as the River Nene burst its banks in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire. Picture: Paul Marriott.

The flood warning service said low lying properties near the river are most at risk, it said: “Heavy rain has been falling on the River Nene catchment over the last two days.

“The rising river levels have already caused flooding of low lying land and roads, and we now expect properties in Peterborough to be affected from the evening of Friday 25th December onwards.

“The river is forecast to continue to rise throughout the evening and into the night.

“Low lying properties near the River Nene are most at risk.

“The impacts are likely to last throughout the weekend. Stay safe and aware of your local surroundings, avoid contact with flood water, and riverside paths. Our staff are out in the area to check the flood defences, clear blockages, and assist the emergency services and council. We are closely monitoring the situation.”

A flood warning was also issued for the North Bank Road alongside the River Nene, east of Peterborough and west of Dog-in-a-Doublet Sluice which said: “During periods of high tide the river will be unable to discharge into the sea, resulting in tide lock conditions.

“This is likely to lead to localised flooding at North Bank Road from the early hours on the 25th December onwards. Whilst the Flood Warning is in force, the Local Authority will close North Bank Road.

“Diversionary routes will be put in place and further updates will be available through local media.

“This Flood Warning is expected to stay in force for several hours until tide lock conditions improve. Please follow diversionary routes until the local authority re-open the road. We are operating the Dog-in-a-Doublet sluice to discharge water during low tide, and reduce the flood risk as much as possible.”