South Woodham Ferrers: Flooding Hits Homes

7th February 2012, 08:06

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Homes were evacuated and residents told to remain upstairs after a burst water main caused flooding in South Woodham Ferrers.

Police feared that up to 100 homes in East Bridge Road would have to be evacuated after reports of flooding at 6.30am on Tuesday.

The water reached 2.5ft deep in parts of the street. Water entered several properties.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Most of the residents were initially asked to move upstairs where it was safe to do so.

"A total of 13 people were immediately evacuated and were assisted from their homes by members of the Essex Police marine unit and other officers."

The water company has now stopped the flood of water from a ruptured pipe, the spokesman added. The water is gradually receding.
Essex Fire Service said at the peak of the flooding, about 200 people were forced to leave their homes. A total of 50 homes were flooded. There were no casualties.

Divisional officer Matt Hughes said: "The water board estimate that around a million gallons of water have leaked out of the ruptured main and into the road.

"Firefighters have been doing an excellent job in difficult conditions. There is a large amount of extremely cold water and crews in dry suits have been involved in making sure that people and as many of their possessions as possible are safe. Firefighters are also pumping water from homes where it is possible."

Police are also helping residents to mop up, a spokesman said.