The Environment Agency issued a flood warning at 9.32am today for the River Thames and tributaries at New Botley, New Hinksey, North Hinksey, South Hinksey and Grandpont. The EA advise property flooding is expected. Their statement says: ‘River levels are rising on the River Thames and the watercourses around Oxford, including the Bulstake Stream as a result of heavy rainfall. Therefore, flooding of low lying land, roads and property is expected later this afternoon 04/01/2024, especially in the areas closest to the river in New Botley. Areas most at risk are properties on Botley Road, and the roads off Botley Road in New Botley.’

This is likely to be the most serious flooding we have seen since January 2014, the last big event. On 9 January 2014 the Thames south of Osney Lock peaked at 3.93m, the Bulstake Stream at 3.02m, and the Seacourt at 3.08. Current levels are around 30cms below those 2014 levels, but the river is sill rising with more heavy rain forecast. Current levels are higher than the Dec 2020 floods, and approaching the levels reached in February 2021, the previous worst flooding since 2014.

We understand that temporary defences will be erected at South Hinksey today and that the City Council is deploying defences behind Bulstake Close. The EA and local authorities are keeping the situation under close review and have teams ready to respond as need arises.

Everyone living in the affected areas should take the warnings seriously, monitor the evolving situation, and consider whether they need to take action to protect themselves and their property.

       Bottom of Ferry Hinksey Rd this morning. End of Willow Walk also flooded.