There are currently two flood warnings for Oxford in place.
These are for the River Thames and tributaries at New Botley, New Hinksey, North Hinksey, South Hinksey and Grandpont, and for the River Cherwell for the Oxford area.
River levels are high and rising due to water moving from upstream areas, compounded by the effects of heavy rainfall from Storm Bert. Rainfall of up to 20mm is forecast to continue into Wednesday morning, with rivers expected to react to the additional water.
At this time, no flooded properties have been reported.
The Seacourt Park and Ride extension has been closed, and flood barriers have been deployed at key locations across the city to mitigate the impact of the rising waters. The Bullstake Close flood barrier is now in place, and a pump is on standby should it be needed. In addition, the South Hinksey barrier has been activated to protect surrounding areas.
The towpath from Botley Road to Fiddlers Island is currently closed, and inspections of the towpath from Folly Bridge south are ongoing this morning.
To report a flood visit Report a flood - Oxfordshire Flood Toolkit
Comment
“This is the third time this year that Oxford has been threatened by severe flooding. It is very clear both in our country, and with the recent extreme weather in Spain which had such devastating results, that climate change is having a real effect on our weather and in particular flooding risks. Once in a generation flooding is now happening on an increasingly regular basis. We need the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme to happen as soon as possible.”
“Oxford City Council and ODS are working closely with the Environment Agency and Oxfordshire County Council to ensure that our city’s flood defences and preparations are in place. We are monitoring the situation closely and have staff on duty around the clock working to protect properties and assist people who are vulnerable.”
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council
Residents in affected areas should:
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Act on your flood plan if you have one
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Move your family and pets to a safe location
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Businesses should inform staff and customers, ensure they can get to safety, and move stock to a safe place
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Move vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so
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Use flood protection equipment, such as barriers, air brick covers, and pumps, to safeguard your property
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Move important items upstairs or to a safe location, starting with irreplaceable items like family photographs, followed by valuables (computers, etc.), and movable furniture
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Pack a bag with essential items for a few nights away, including a torch, spare batteries, mobile phone, charger, warm clothes, home insurance information, water, food, a first aid kit, and any necessary prescription medicines
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Turn off gas, electricity, and water mains supplies before floodwater starts to enter your property. Never touch an electrical switch if you are standing in water
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Help your neighbours by making sure they are aware of the situation and offering assistance to those who may need it
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Listen to the advice of emergency services and be prepared to evacuate if instructed
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Avoid walking, cycling, or driving through floodwaters – even shallow, fast-moving water can be dangerous
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Floodwater is hazardous and may be contaminated. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come into contact with it.
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If there is a risk to life, please contact the emergency services on 999.
Advice for boat dwellers
Boaters are likely to be acutely aware of changes in water levels, particularly if you live on a boat. Remember to:
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Keep an eye on the weather, particularly if you're moored in a rural part of a canal or river
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Don't cruise in strong stream conditions. Tie up securely, watch for changes in water level and adjust your mooring ropes as necessary
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Take extra care when getting on and off your boat as the verge may be submerged
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If you find yourself in difficulty and can't get off your boat, please call 999 and ask for the fire service
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If the area where you're moored starts to flood, make sure your mooring ropes allows for movement
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Be careful where you choose to moor: for example don't moor under bridges where water levels can rise
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Be mindful of falling branches, and even trees, in high winds
For more information visit the Canal and River Trust website.
Towpaths
Towpaths along the rivers through Oxford are likely to become flooded. It is extremely dangerous to attempt to walk or cycle along flooded towpaths. This has led to loss of life in the past.
Sandbags
Neither Oxfordshire County Council nor Oxford City Council provide sandbags to individual properties, except to vulnerable residents. We recommend therefore buying sandbags if your property is at risk. Sandbags can be purchased at most builders' merchants, including Buildbase, Wickes, and B&Q.
For more information
We recommend signing up for for flood warnings - GOV.UK
For further details on the affected areas, please visit the Environment Agency’s flooding website, the City Council’s Severe Weather page and the Oxfordshire Flood Toolkit. You can also follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on X for updates.
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