Flood warnings and road closures continue as flood levels begin to fall

Despite drier weather over recent days, residents in Oxfordshire are still being advised to keep a very close eye on the weather forecast and on local river levels.

Current levels on the Thames, Cherwell and are other watercourses remain high following heavy rain during the week as the effects run through the river network.

There is one Environment Agency flood warning relating to the River Ray for Islip. Meanwhile there are several flood alerts in place.

Enivironment Agency flooding warning and alerts

The only road closed at present is Lower Street, Islip.

You can find out more about flooding and how to prepare and deal with it in the Oxfordshire Flood Toolkit.

How you can help and stay safe

• Look after yourself and others in flooded areas. Slow down on roads that have been affected by flooding - bow-waves caused by driving too fast can affect people's homes and damage your own vehicle.

• River paths and canal towpaths may be closed or partially flooded so take care

• Check on elderly or vulnerable family members to ensure they are safe and well

• Sign up for the Environment Agency's Flood Alerts, especially if you live in an area you know to be at risk of flood

The public can get in touch with us via 0345 310 1111 if they wish to advise us of any problems on the roads with rising water levels or if road closure signs are no longer needed due to receding water.

For more information

River levels in Oxfordshire can be monitored via the Environment Agency’s website here 

Flood alerts and flood warnings for Oxfordshire can be monitored here 

The Environment Agency’s Five Day Flood Risk page is here 

Working hard in trying circumstances

Matt Chapman, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:

"Many county council staff have been busy throughout the current flood situation, including highways, fire and rescue officers and crews, the Emergency Planning Unit and emergency response volunteers and care services, all working in trying circumstances due to the rainfall.

"Oxfordshire County Council roads team have responded to reports of flooded roads and have put out signs at a number of locations warning of poor driving conditions or closures. Some of these closure signs have been moved and we would like to emphasise that closure signs in the road are there for safety reasons and they should not be moved. Additional flooding caused by “bow-waves” from vehicles driving through flooded roads have also caused further issues for residents.

"Fire and rescue crews have rescued a number of people trapped in vehicles this morning and responded to reports of elderly or vulnerable people who friends and family have not been able to contact or reach. Additionally we have assisted with pumping out certain properties where a risk-to-life was identified due to flooding. Crews also worked alongside staff from Thames Water in Wendlebury to ensure the pumping station there continued to operate effectively.

"The best advice for residents is to be prepared for flooding, and avoid driving through flooded streets. Residents can keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts and Environment Agency alerts."