Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire has been hit hard by flooding caused by Storm Claudia, leaving parked cars submerged under floodwaters. The market town has experienced widespread disruption, including numerous road closures across the county. Although many roads have since reopened, two flood warnings remain in effect, both focusing on the River Severn, particularly at the Severn Ham area in Tewkesbury, where water levels are expected to peak Monday evening.
Photos released by Tewkesbury Borough Council on November 15 show a car park entirely underwater, along with surrounding fields soaked by floodwaters. Authorities have urged drivers to avoid using the Vineyards car park due to ongoing flooding concerns.
Despite warnings, some drivers were caught out, with vehicles photographed stranded in deep water on a local Facebook page; one of these cars has since been moved. A council spokesperson emphasized the seriousness of the situation: “River levels are expected to remain high into next week and some car parks in Tewkesbury are currently flooded – please avoid the Vineyards long stay carpark. Please take extra care when travelling and avoid affected areas where possible. Our officers continue to monitor the situation closely and are ready to provide support if needed.”
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Yesterday’s heavy rainfall resulted in more than a dozen road closures this morning, though over half have now reopened. Currently, Gloucestershire County Council reports no road closures in Tewkesbury.
The Environment Agency’s flood warning covers multiple areas, including Abbey Mill, Upper and Lower Lode, and Shakespeare Court. The agency reports that rising river levels, fed by widespread heavy rainfall, are expected to continue causing flooding throughout the weekend. Property and roads around Mill Avon Riverside and minor roads in Tirley, Chaceley, Hasfield, Hawbridge, Lower Lode, Ashleworth, Deerhurst, Wainlode, and Apperley may be affected. Predicted river levels at Mythe are forecasted to peak between 3.5m and 4.0m by the evening of November 17.
A more recent flood warning was issued for Apperley and The Leigh, indicating river levels there might not peak until Wednesday, November 19. This warning highlights possible flooding on the B4213 at Haw Bridge, with peaks between 4.5m and 5.0m expected.
The Environment Agency advises residents to avoid walking, cycling, or driving through floodwaters and continues to monitor the situation closely, promising updates as conditions evolve.