New flood centre opens (From Gazette & Herald)

New flood centre opens

HOUSEHOLDERS and businesses in York and North Yorkshire should receive better flood warnings than ever before, following the opening of a new flood forecasting centre.

The Environment Agency says the high tech centre in Leeds will bring greater accuracy and reliability to the way in which it monitors possible flooding, all the way from North Derbyshire to the Scottish border.

"From the first drops of rain falling on the region's hills, right through to rising river levels and even predictive flood forecasts, the upgraded facility is a breakthrough in the Environment Agency's ability to record data, predict when flooding might happen and, most importantly, warn people about it," said a spokesman.

"However, the responsibility still lies with householders and businesses to be aware of flood warning messages, to listen to the Environment Agency's advice, and to take effective action."

Regional flood risk manager Mark Tinnion said: "The opening of this forecasting room is great news, for us here in terms of being able to provide professional, accurate and timely flood warnings, and also to the 262,000 people living in flood risk areas across the north-east.

"Our ability to monitor and warn people about impending flooding can be crucial to protecting peoples property and even their lives, so we're delighted that we're able to improve our service in this way."

Updated: 14:47 Wednesday, April 05, 2006