People are being urged to stay vigilant amid heavy rainfall which has led to higher-than-average river levels on watercourses in Oxfordshire. 

A number of flood alerts are currently in force meaning that flooding is possible in the areas affected.

If the Environment Agency issues a flood alert this indicates that an area should be prepared for the wet weather.

This includes making defences and staying up to date with the latest flood alerts.

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When a flood warning is issued, this indicates a greater level of severity.

Oxfordshire had heavy rainfall in late December which has led to the warning. 

A spokesperson for Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “If you live in an area with an active flood alert, make sure to monitor local water levels and weather conditions.

“Avoid using low lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding.”

You can keep in touch with the Environment Agency's regularly updated information relating to current flood alerts and flood warnings and the five-day flood risk for Oxfordshire.

Meanwhile it is also possible to monitor individual levels on the county's rivers, streams and brooks.

Flood water is not clean and not suitable for children to play in.

There might be hidden hazards under the water such as manhole covers that have lifted.

Anyone who has been in flood water should wash their hands at the soonest opportunity.

You can sign up to receive flood warnings from the Environment Agency.

Alternatively, you can call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 to register.

The service is free and you can choose to receive notifications of flood warnings by email, text, or both.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1