Major flooding disrupts UK

Torrential rains cause floods and displacement

Travel Insurance News - 22/11/2009

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After almost thirty two consecutive days of rainfall, major flooding has been reported from many parts of the United Kingdom. With twice the usual amount of winter rainfall being reported, the continued risk of severe flooding unfortunately remains very high.

Most farmlands are under water and many rivers have burst their banks. In many parts such as Enniskillen, Church Hill, Derrylin, Wattle Bridge and Lisnaskea, roads are under water.The main road from Dublin to Enniskillen has been shut down as rising water has disrupted many parts. The water in Lough Erne has recorded the highest water level in a decade. The dam in Ballyshannon is reportedly releasing around 300 tonnes of water per second.

Major floods have also hit the town of Cumbria. A police officer, Mr. Pc Bill Barker, was reportedly swept away after a portion of the bridge was washed away by rising waters. Search operations that were sent out to look for him however were hindered by the rough current that swept through the Derwent river and the large amount if debris that was swept into it. The waters were said to be very challenging to navigate through.

Over two hundred people were rescued from the flooded town of Cockermouth by rescue and emergency services. Though no serious injuries or fatalities were reported, many had scratches and bruises.

Water levels in the town of Cockermouth were reported to have reached monstrous levels: 2 metres and above. West and South of the country were also badly affected, as many towns showed flooding in some areas as high as one meter.

A number of road and rail services were disrupted and travel is not advised unless absolutely necessary.

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