Flood risk

Forecasters say there is a chance some parts of Berkshire and North Hampshire could flood as the ice thaws this weekend.

The Met Office says temperatures could rise to around 8 degrees on Saturday and Sunday, finally thawing the ice that has gripped our region. The Enviroment Agency is warning that could mean low lying land, especially around the River Loddon, could flood.

Darren Condick is from their flood team, "at the moment we are not expecting houses to flood, but  if you live in a flood-risk area, you should keep your eye on the situation and be prepared."

Click here to listen to the full interview with Darren

Be prepared:

Darren told Heart there are a few things we can do to be prepared:

• Check the Environment Agency website and look on the flood map to see if you are in a high risk area.
• If you are worried about flooding, call the flood line on: 0845 988 1188 (24 hour service) or Type talk 0845 602 6340
• Know how to turn off your gas, electric and water.
• Make sure you have all the numbers of your utility companies to hand, along with your Local Authority.
• If a flood warning is issued for your area, start to think about moving your valuables upstairs into a safe place.
• Make sure plug holes are blocked to stop water backing up.
• Contact your Local Authority for sand bags or make some yourself.