Firefighters tackle more than 20 flooding incidents in Herts

Firefighters clearing flooding in Hitchin's Bridge Street. <i>(Image: Gregory Owain)</i>
Firefighters clearing flooding in Hitchin's Bridge Street. (Image: Gregory Owain)
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More than 20 flooding incidents were tackled by firefighters following heavy rainfall and thunderstorms yesterday.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to calls on Thursday, August 27, after thunderstorms led to flooding across parts of the county, including Stevenage and North Hertfordshire.

Chief fire officer Alex Woodman said: "Heavy rainfall can have a significant impact in a short space of time, and I'd like to thank our crews, control operators and partner agencies for their hard work and professionalism in responding to the increased demand caused by yesterday's weather.

Chief fire officer Alex Woodman thanked crews for their efforts. (Image: Gregory Owain)

"While conditions may improve quickly, floodwater can present serious and often hidden dangers.

"We’d urge residents to remain vigilant, follow the advice of the emergency services and never attempt to drive through floodwater."

Sun Street in Hitchin flooded after heavy rain yesterday. (Image: Gregory Owain)

Between 5.30pm and 7pm, fire control received 60 calls, with crews attending more than 20 flooding-related incidents.

The majority of incidents were in Hitchin and North Hertfordshire and included stranded vehicles and flooding affecting homes, businesses and other properties.

A car wades through water in Stevenage's Bedwell Crescent. (Image: Vicky Sheehan)

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