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Many families in Bedfordshire have been urged to leave their homes immediately on Christmas Day as the UK prepares for Storm Bella.
Bedfordshire Police have “strongly” advised residents living near the River Great Ouse in North Bedfordshire to seek alternative accommodation amid fears of flooding tonight.
Officials said the request “overrides” current level four coronavirus restrictions, and that people “can go to other people’s homes.”
A local athletics stadium will be used as a secure Covid emergency assistance center for evacuees.
The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning throughout England and Wales, as well as the southern tip of Scotland, from 3pm on December 26 to 12pm on December 27.
An Amber National Severe Weather Advisory has also been issued for parts of South Wales and across southern England, with gusts expected to reach up to 60-70 mph in exposed coastal locations.
Bedford Borough Council warned of “significant levels of flood water expected to affect Bedford and other parts of the township.”
Superintendent Steve Ashdown said officers had visited just over 1,300 homes in the area Thursday night.
He said: ‘The river is currently at elevated levels and we are predicting a significant flood event for 8pm tonight.
‘If you got one of those notices last night, you are at one of those properties that are most at risk from this flood.
‘We encourage you to leave if it is safe for you to do so, as soon as you can.
“Appreciating that the timing of this on Christmas Day is not very good, but the risk to you and your family and your well-being is significant.”
Mayor Dave Hodgson said the Environment Agency expected “the highest level of flooding seen in Bedford Borough in several years.”
He added: ‘Working with partners, we are strongly encouraging people who are at risk of flooding and have been contacted to leave if they can do so safely.
‘If your property is at risk of flooding and there is a threat to life, call 999 and ask for Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue.
‘If you need help, there is support and advice available through the Town Hall flood line on 01234 718007.
‘For this to happen during the Christmas period is really difficult, especially after the changes in plans that many of us have already had to adapt to. But this is a very serious situation. If you can and have been advised to do so, take steps to keep yourself and your families safe. ‘
People are advised to turn off gas, water, and electricity and to move valuables upstairs before evacuating.
It comes after the Environment Agency issued 81 flood warnings for the whole of the UK.
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