Severn Trent Water issue warning as flooding possible when Storm Austen hits West Midlands
Flooding is possible around the banks of the River Stour and Smestow Brook in the Black Country and South Staffordshire.
Severn Trent Water have issued a warning to residents as flooding is possible when Storm Austen hits the West Midlands.
Motorists have been warned to be prepared as the first named storm of the season will bring strong gusts of wind to the county on Friday (October 23).
The Met Office have issued a yellow weather warning for wind from 10am until 9pm with drivers are being warned to take care in high winds and to prepare for delays with possible fallen trees.
But according to the Government website, flooding is possible around the banks of the River Stour and Smestow Brook in the Black Country and South Staffordshire.
The Environment Agency said: “Forecast high river levels overnight may lead to flooding. Flooding is possible from the early hours of Friday 23 October .
“Flooding may affect low lying land and roads around Halesowen, Stourbridge, Wombourne, Kingswinford and Kinver.
“We are closely monitoring the situation. Avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded.”
Following the warning, Severn Trent Water have advised residents who may experience flooding “from a road or a footpath and there’s no evidence of sewerage (toilet paper etc), please report this to your local Council who are responsible for highways drainage flooding.”
However, if flooding is spotted from a river or stream, “please contact the Environment Agency and they will be able to assist further. You can find more information and contact details on their website or please contact their Floodline number on 0345 988 1188.”
The water supplier has created a guide to help customers determine different types of flooding, and who to contact.