3:01pm Friday 5th September 2008
By Philip Wilkinson-Jones
HEREFORDSHIRE motorists are being warned to take extra care as heavy rain takes it toll on the county’s roads.
Lower Bullingham Lane in Hereford has already been closed because of flooding and Herefordshire Council’s highways department has recieved a number of reports of surface water on county roads.
Drivers are also being asked to move their cars from Merton Meadow car park in Hereford because of surface water.
The A466 in the Llancloudy/ Wormlow Tump area is passable with care and the A465 at Stoke Lacy is under two and a half feet of water - only passable in a 4x4.
The council also reports that the River Wye is about to burst its banks in the Sellack area near Ross.
Richard Ball, Herefordshire Council’s acting head of highways, said: “Drivers need to be aware there may be hidden dangers lurking under surface water and I would urge them to reduce their speed and drive according to the conditions.
“People should allow extra time for their journeys and drive sensibly.”
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is also warning drivers to be careful.
Assistant chief fire officer Jon Hall said: “We would urge those drivers who regularly use fords as short cuts not to use over the next few days.
“Also, do not drive through floodwater - it is extremely dangerous. streams can suddenly become raging torrents.
“They are extremely fast flowing and dangerous and you could become trapped in your vehicle. Please take extra care on the roads and allow extra time for your journey.”
Log onto herefordshire.gov.uk or check the traffic updates at herefordtimes.com to get the latest on road closures.
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