Storm Dennis
Storm warning: ‘only come to the pub if it’s safe’
The Environment Agency has issued 150 flood warnings, meaning that flooding is ‘expected’, and 192 flood alerts, meaning that flooding is ‘possible’, as of this afternoon (18 February 2020).
Major incidents have been declared in the worst-hit areas of south Wales, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire.
It comes just a week after Storm Ciara wreaked havoc on the UK.
Despite widespread damage and closures, many publicans have kept their communities’ spirits up on social media.
Neighbours of the Talbot Inn, in the village of Newnham Bridge, Worcestershire, had their bacon saved by pub operators when surrounding fields flooded.
Pubs have been offering their punters somewhere warm and dry to hide from heavy rains.
What a downpour! Head to the pub for shelter, we've got plenty of beer, or perhaps a hot toddy to warm up with plus our delicious menu is ready and waiting for you! See you at the bar...
— The Bishop (@bishopkingston) February 18, 2020
.#StormDennis#GreatBritishWeather
The Vine Tree in Llangattock, Crickhowell, south Wales, advised its customers not to attempt to visit the venue unless they could do so safely.
Jono Seaton, operator of the Ferry Inn, in Selby, North Yorkshire, said his beer garden was flooded by the nearby River Ouse, with between £2,000 and £3,000 worth of damage caused.
He told The Morning Advertiser: “Trade has been slower than normal because we didn't get any passing trade due to all the roads in the nearby area being flooded, as well as people maybe perceiving it was closed.
“Normally, the floods attract more trade because you can step out onto the decking area and virtually touch the water, by the flood defence wall.
“Staff and customers are amazed by how the flood defences work. Yet at the same time, they are worried due to the mass of water you can look out at. More is expected, which is worrying as the flood planes are already covered and there have been two storms in the space of a week.”
Drone footage shows the extent of flooding in Crickhowell, in south-east Powys, near Abergavenny.
