Leighton remains on flood alert today following the heavy rainfall of recent days.
After an initial rise in river levels in the Ouzel and its tributaries following Tuesday’s rainfall, levels have started to fall, Environment Agency officials say.
Yesterday an Environment Agency spokesman said: “The forecast for the next 24 to 36 hours is for isolated spells of heavy rain which could lead to rises in the Ouzel and tributaries, but we do not anticipate rises to the extent of those seen at the weekend.”
A week of wet weather culminated in torrential downpours on Sunday, sending a surge of water into the Ouzel, raising river levels to near-record levels.
The Water Meadows (pictured) to the north of Leighton Road, a favourite spot for cattle in summer, lived up to its name and were fully submerged by 12noon. It prompted the Environment Agnecy to issue a flood warning. By Sunday evening water levels had reached 1.53m – just 6cm shy of the highest level since records began – and while flood warnings remained in place, levels had dropped to 0.77m by Monday afternoon.
But despite the soggy scenes, the majority of homeowners enjoyed a lucky escape with only one address in Leighton reported to be flooded – two fire crews spent eight hours at an address in Craddock Drive battling the elements.
For more on the flooding see the May 1 issue of the LBO.
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