A multi-agency task force will continue to monitor water levels, rainfall and highways conditions extremely closely over the weekend, with vital support at community level by the voluntary sector.
With further torrential downpours and more prolonged periods of heavy rain possible across the county during rush hour and into the evening, motorists in particular are urged to take great care.
The council is continuing to take a steady stream of requests to sandbags and is responding to those on a priority basis with areas facing the most immediate threat of flood receiving a rapid response.
With the worst weather forecast for this afternoon and evening, emergency teams are in place to ensure the quickest response possible to requests for help.
The Highways Action Line, 0191 370 6000, will be staffed through the night and into the weekend with additional resources on hand to support if required.
Terry Collins, corporate director for neighbourhood services, said: “I would just like to reiterate to motorists to take additional care this evening while driving home as road conditions change very quickly during these extreme cloudbursts.
“Through this afternoon and evening these could occur across the county and often happen with no warning.
“Travel slowly and do not try and drive through surface water on the highways unless you are absolutely sure it’s safe to do so.”
Supt Graham Hall of Durham Constabulary said: “We are working with our colleagues in the other emergency services, the Civil Contingency Unit, local authorities and utility companies as well as other agencies to ensure an effective response in the event of further extreme weather.”
Current forecasts for the rest of the weekend are now not as severe as originally predicted however; all agencies will be closely monitoring the situation.
The council, CCU, Durham Constabulary, Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service and Environment Agency are also being supported the voluntary sector with Red
Cross volunteers offering help to people in the immediate aftermath of their homes being affected by flood water.
Additional advice on what to do following a flood is available at
www.environment-agency.gov.uk
