by Michelle Horst
While parts of the country experienced a blanket of snow in the past week, nearly a month’s worth of rain fell in the East Riding over the same two days.
Flood alerts remain in place across the Holderness region after rainfall reached above average for January, and melting snow from the weekend continues to keep river and drain levels high. The Environment Agency warned low-lying land would remain at risk.
A flood warning remained in place for Leven, where the Leven drain burst its banks, while a lower-level alert continues for land and properties across much of Holderness.
The downpour caused water main leaks in Mappleton and Brandesburton, and major routes into and out of Hornsea suffered. Residents in Hornsea took to social media to warn one another of flooded roads and impassable routes.
Flowing water crossed the A1035 Seaton Road at the junction of Bewholme Lane, creating dangerous driving conditions. Drivers were forced to turn around and seek different routes. The B1243 Rise Road from Sigglesthorne to Skirlaugh was also affected, with multiple areas passable with care, while the Withernsea to Hornsea road was closed at Garton.
Frustrated residents reported the problems to Humberside Police, who alerted the Highways Agency and East Riding Council.
The council released a statement online: “We are aware of multiple instances of flooding on roads affecting the East Riding. Our teams are out working to keep residents safe. Residents are advised to keep away from flood waters and swollen rivers, and not to drive through flood water. It is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car. Driving through flooded roads can also push water into homes.”
Community and Litter Picking Services sought to protect walkers. They informed locals via Facebook that Stream Dyke was “running high,” and a popular dog-walking field was under water, adding: “The rear of Tesco car park is under water, so please observe the 15mph limit on the site for obvious reasons.”
The Environment Agency urges people to take extra care near flood water and avoid walking, cycling or driving through it. Flooded roads, drains and paths can be reported directly by calling 01482 393939.
A spokesman for East Riding Council later said: “The council has been actively dealing with almost 100 reports of flooding on roads across the East Riding since the weekend, ranging from totally impassable routes to standing water.
“Our teams have visited every site and put in place a number of road closure and flood warning signs, with diversions, where they have been needed.
“A lot of the problems have been caused by water flowing off fields as the land is saturated.
“The council has also shared advice and information about flooding and what to do through messages on local social media sites, including those in the Holderness area.
“We would encourage residents to report flooding issues to us, so we can then investigate and take any appropriate action as required.
“We’d also encourage drivers to take care and take notice of warning signs and road closures.
“Currently in the Holderness area, only the B1242 road at Garton, between Aldbrough and Roos, remains closed to traffic.”
