Storm Henk highlights drainage issues

THE 1st named storm of 2024, Storm Henk brought high winds with large amounts of rain across, leaving flooded homes and roads across England and Wales.

Across England and Wales many flood hit farmers are yet again calling on the Government to invest more in river defences in rural areas to protect UK food production.

On Merseyside, we might not have Wednesday,3 January 2024, the situation following Storm Henk resulted in many roads being flooded, as well as fields.

This flooding resulted in surface water on some of the areas roads going into home and properties. This was the case on a the corner of Back 'O' The Town Lane , Ince Blundell, Merseyside.

When we reported the issue to Sefton Council we got told:- "During periods of persistent heavy rain it is normal for drainage systems to back up due to the capacity of water and the system not being able to cope with the demand (amounts involved). Normally the water will disperse within a short period of time ‘after the rain has stopped."

But as the resident whose property was being affected by the water as the cars drove past said:- "The situation is not that simple as the drains are blocked and are not properly cleaned regularly, meaning the water just sits their for a prolonged period and is not only an issue to our property, but also a danger to road users."

This statement about drainage being a problem due to lack of road cleaning and drain cleaning is becoming a major issue, not just in Sefton, but all over the Liverpool City Region, as pointed out by:- Paul the Cyclist, who commented on Twitter about a related issue on the Wirral, saying:- "Deep flooding A41 inside Lane North Bound under the bridge on Rock Ferry Bypass and a few other roads due to blocked drains as per usual."

With Storm Henk continuing to cause multiple flood warnings and risks of disruption and damage, home expert, Matthew Harwood at Confused.com home insurance comments:- "Storm Henk has brought strong winds and flooding to parts of the UK. And this may have caused damage to homes and gardens for many around the country. Our research has found that 9% have had their homes damaged in the past due to storms and strong winds. And as climate change continues, the risk of flood and storm damage is likely to increase."

This comment by Matthew Harwood about the risk of flood and storm damage is likely to increase raises the question why our side roads are now left un-cleaned for prolonged periods and drains un-cleaned, as it increases the risks of damage to roads and any neighbouring properties. Not to forget increasing the chance of accidents.

Matthew Harwood added:- "You might already have cover for flood damage in your buildings and contents insurance, but the level of cover could vary. So it's worth checking with your provider. If you think might need more protection in the future, you could add flood insurance to an existing policy or take it out separately."

It is also worth noting that you can check your flood risk and also sign up for free flood alerts by visiting:- Gov.UK.

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