Severn Trent issues three things people can do to stop flooding

Emptying water butts, checking drains are free-flowing and clearing debris from drains will all help

Severn Trent Water has issued three tips that could help prevent flooding in your local area amid the forecasted heavy rain. An amber alert for rain will be in place across the West Midlands region tomorrow (September 23) following on from the yellow alert in place today.

Deluges began yesterday (September 22) which left roads submerged and cars stranded. Thunderstorms also brought about lightning which struck a number of buildings in the region.

The Government's flooding service has also placed the region at 'medium' risk of flooding tomorrow to coincide with the amber flood warning. The Met Office has warned about the potential of roads being flooded, property being flooded along train cancellations and power cuts.

READ MORE: West Midlands floods live updates as Met Office issues 'amber' warning for region

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Severn Trent has issued three ways to help prevent flooding in your local area:

• Empty any water butts in the garden before the rain starts, this will help reduce the rainwater flow into the drains when a storm arrives.
• Check that your home and garden drains are free-flowing – clear out any leaves or other waste so rainwater can more easily flow away.
• Have a look at the roadside drains around your house and clear any leaves or debris that you can – or get in touch with your local council if they’re blocked.

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