Major route closed suddenly after heavy rain causes flooding & widespread disruption with drivers told ‘expect delays’
A MAJOR road has been closed suddenly after heavy rainfall led to flooding, with drivers told to “expect delays”.
Photos show the tarmac submerged under streams of water, leaving cars stranded and playing havoc with the road network.
The last 48 hours have seen almost a month’s worth of rainfall as heavy downpours swept the UK.
A total of 17 weather warnings were issued as schools shut, football matches were cancelled and entire towns were left waterlogged.
Shocking footage showed drivers in Luton heading towards what looked to be a “mini tornado”, while the town’s airport was cut off by floodwater.
But further West, reports from Wiltshire suggest a busy A-road has been closed off at short notice thanks to the awful weather.
A stretch of the A4 running between Chippenham and Calne has seen an emergency closure imposed.
Local officials explained that the restrictions were due to “severe” flooding in the area around the Millenium Bridge.
Drivers have been told to “expect delays” in the area and to avoid affected routes where possible.
It is understood that the section of the A4 subject to the shutdown is not currently considered safe for use.
Police added that some vehicles have been abandoned in the area after they were stranded by the rising water.
Elsewhere, the villages of Mile Elm and Bremhill have seen areas blocked off by floodwater, causing disruption and access issues.
Residents of nearby Calne have been seen wading through the tide to get to their homes, while rush hour saw rows of traffic backing up due to closures nearby.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: “Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes and expect delays in the area.”
More information and advice on what to do if you are affected by flooding can be found on the National Highways website.
It comes after a major river crossing closed over the weekend for “emergency” works.
What should you do if you're caught in a flood
If you fear that your area is about to be flooded, government advice is to turn off your gas and electricity where safe to do so and move to higher ground.
You should also consult your local council’s advice and access a community flood plan if you have one.
Advice is also available online from the National Flood Forum and British Red Cross, or by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
During a flood, try and stay at the highest point possible and keep exits clear in case you need to escape rising water.
Do not touch any electrical sockets or devices when standing in water.
It is also strongly advised that you do not attempt to use flooded roads as you could be left stranded – remember the water may be deeper than it looks.
If your home is flooded you can apply to your local council for temporary accommodation until it becomes habitable again.