Urgent warning over flooding in west of borough and in Mardyke Valley as government reacts following a weekend of high water and damage

By Neil Speight

18th Jan 2021 | Local News

IN a move following a weekend of flooding the government issued a flood warning for the Purfleet area last night and has repeated it this morning, saying homes and businesses may be in danger.

As reported extensively yesterday (Sunday, 17 January) the Mardyke Valley has been subject to significant flooding because of faults at the Purfleet sluice.

The environment agency originally played down the seriousness of the fault but now appear to be changing their reporting of the situation.

Yesterday Thurrock Nub news featured flooding that had caused damage to the Thurrock Scouts' building at Cherrywood and flooding at a local horse stables.

Today we have learned of a farmer upstream who has lost hundreds of tons of grain stored in a flooded barn.

This morning's statement by the Government, which they say will be updated later today can be found here.

It currently says:

"The Mardyke from North Stifford to Purfleet

Flooding is expected - immediate action required

This message has been issued because flooding of homes and businesses is likely throughout today, Monday 18th January and for the next few days. River levels are remaining high and responsive to further rainfall. Areas most at risk are along the River Mardyke between North Stifford and Purfleet. We are working hard to resolve an issue with the sluice which is restricting the river draining out to sea through the Mardyke Sluice as quickly as expected. The forecast is for a dry day for most of Monday, but persistent rainfall will arrive Monday evening, throughout the night and into Tuesday morning. Flood water is dangerous. Don't put yourself or others at risk. We are closely monitoring the situation and will update this message as necessary, and no later than 6pm on Monday 18th January.

Also see:

Shock and anger at flooded stables.