Fresh flood warnings for Northamptonshire three weeks after hundreds evacuated

Parts of Northamptonshire face a fresh threat of flooding just three weeks after hundreds were forced to evacuate homes in the county.

The Environment Agency today (Thursday) issued a mid-level alert warning residents at Cogenhoe Mill caravan site that flooding is "expected" on the River Nene and "immediate action is required."

Two more amber alerts are in force for the Nene at Thrapston and the Tove near Towcester.

A spokesman said: "Heavy rain has been falling on the River Nene catchment overnight and is expected to continue throughout Thursday.

"The rising river levels have already caused flooding of low lying land and roads in the area and, due to the deteriorating weather conditions, we now expect properties at Cogenhoe Caravan Site to be affected.

"More rainfall is forecast over the weekend and we will be closely monitoring the situation.

"Our staff are out in the area to check the flood defences, clear blockages, and assist the Emergency Services and Council."

Further updates to the flood warnings are expected early on Friday.

Thousands of residents in Cogenhoe and Billing, and in the north of the county around Kettering, were affected by floods two days before Christmas with many roads in Northampton also under water.

Many spent up to five nights in hotels and staying with friends while emergency services dealt with up to five feet of flood water at Billing Aquadrome.