Home / Disasters and Accidents / York Drenched: Ouse River Swamps City
York Drenched: Ouse River Swamps City
26 Jan
Summary
- River Ouse breached its banks, flooding parts of York city.
- Residents warned to avoid water due to severe flooding risks.
- Flood gates and Foss Barrier were active to manage the crisis.
Major flooding has impacted York, with the River Ouse overflowing its banks and submerging areas of the city. Residents in riverside properties received flood warnings from the Environment Agency on Sunday afternoon, with specific alerts for St George's Field and Queen's Staith. The River Ouse's water level reached 3.38 metres on the Viking Recorder station, exceeding the 3-metre threshold where property flooding becomes possible.
Flood mitigation measures, including flood gates and the Foss Barrier, were activated in the city centre on Sunday. Images depicted rising waters engulfing front doors and submerging street furniture and signposts. The Environment Agency strongly advised residents to implement their flood plans and utilize any available flood protection products.
This severe weather event follows Storm Ingrid, which brought strong winds and heavy rain across Britain days earlier, causing widespread disruption. Authorities provided guidance on flood safety, including turning off utilities if in a flood zone and moving valuables, vehicles, and pets to higher ground. Residents were also encouraged to follow local council advice if they felt endangered.
