Following heavy rain last week, river levels in west Oxford have risen sharply and water has spilled out across the floodplain. Fields, parks, playgrounds, allotments and some paths are now under water, but properties and streets have so far stayed dry. Levels have not yet reached those seen in early February 2021 but are still going up.

Well-rehearsed responses from the Environment Agency and the local authorities have kicked in. Demountable barriers were transported to South Hinksey on Sunday 15 January and are ready to be deployed. Sandbag defences were put in place this afternoon at Bulstake Close off Botley Rd. Barriers are not currently expected on Osney Island but are available if required.

Seacourt Park and Ride extension was closed by the City Council on 5 January when groundwater began to appear there. The car park is now completely flooded.

River levels upstream in the Thames catchment and on the Cherwell are starting to fall, and we hope levels in Oxford will soon peak. Environment Agency staff are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to ramp up the response if needed.  OFA steering group members are also keeping a close eye on the situation and are in contact with the EA.

These pictures, all taken on 16 January, show the extent of the current flooding.