Thawing and flooding - update 1
There is clearly a considerable volume of rainfall equivalent
locked up in the extensive snow cover which, in many cases, is
overlying frozen ground and has the potential to contribute to
flooding. The pattern of thaw will depend very much on the weather
at the end of the present cold spell. Should there be continued
settled conditions with a gradual rise in daytime temperatures then
any thaw will be gradual. However, if warmer weather also brings
significant rain, this will add to melting snow lying on frozen
ground and cause rapid run off into streams and rivers. River and
reservoir levels are presently low and so there is capacity within
watercourses to deal with a gradual thaw. Without a sudden rise in
temperature and heavy rain, risk of serious flooding is low at the
moment, although there is the potential for some smaller burns and
streams to be affected. Surface water flooding may occur where
residual ice is blocking free drainage.
SEPA monitors rainfall and river levels around the clock, using
this information to update the Floodline service with flood alerts
as appropriate. This information can be accessed through SEPA’s
website at www.sepa.org.uk and also via 0845 988 1188. Whilst the
Met Office does not forecast any substantial change in the
prevailing cold weather in the next week, SEPA is encouraging
anyone concerned about the possibility of flooding to use these
sources of information and ensure they are prepared and have plans
in place should there be any issues.
Ends