Flood Alert in force: The River Gipping, from downstream of Needham Market, to upstream of London Road Bridge, Ipswich.

Flooding is possible for: The River Gipping from downstream of Needham Market to upstream of London Road Bridge, Ipswich, including riverside areas at Great Blakenham, Bramford and Sproughton.

Be prepared.

This message has been issued because some minor flooding to low lying land, roads and riverside areas is likely today, Friday 9 February 2024. River levels are rising steadily in response to the rainfall. Areas most at risk are low lying roads and riverside areas on the River Gipping between Needham Market train station and Ipswich Boss Hall Industrial Estate, including Great Blakenham, Claydon, Bramford and Sproughton. The forecast is for further rainfall and isolated showers throughout today and remaining unsettled into the weekend. Catchments are already saturated and it is likely that rivers will respond. Take care on riverside footpaths, and don’t put yourself in unnecessary danger. We are monitoring the situation and will update  tomorrow, Saturday 10 February 2024.

To check the latest information for your area
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* Visit the GOV.UK website to see the current flood warnings, view river and sea levels or check the 5-day flood risk forecast: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/target-area/054WAFSF4FG

* Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 213019.

* Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.

* Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.

What you should consider doing now
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* Monitor local water levels and weather conditions.

* Get ready to act on your flood plan if you have one.

* Move your car or other vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.

* Prepare a flood kit of essential items including a torch with spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, insurance documents, water, food, first aid kit and any prescription medicines or baby care items you may need.

* Businesses should inform staff and customers about the situation.

* Check that you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies.

* In rural locations, farmers should consider moving livestock and equipment away from areas likely to flood.

* Avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water. 30 cm of fast-flowing water can move a car and 6 inches can knock an adult off their feet.

* Flood water is dangerous and may be polluted. Wash your hands thoroughly if you’ve been in contact with it.