POLICE in Gloucestershire have responded to around 350 calls already today due to gales and torrential rain hitting the county.

Flooding, trees falling and damage to buildings are just some of the reasons worried people have contacted the force’s control room since 7am this morning (Monday 23rd December) A Gloucestershire Police spokesman said if you need to talk to the police and it is an emergency, dial 999.

“Alternatively, for all non emergency reports or concerns, you can reach us through our email address 101@gloucestershire.police.uk or by calling us 101.”

With weather warnings issued for rain and wind in the county at the start of the Christmas getaway today, Gloucestershire County Council’s highway crews and Fire and Rescue Service are on standby ready to respond.

The Met Office have currently issued yellow (be aware) weather warnings for Gloucestershire for rain and winds, which could led to problems with surface water and fallen trees.

The county’s highway teams are monitoring the situation carefully, and road workers already on winter standby are prepared to respond to any weather related incidents.

Highway crews are out on county roads clearing drains of leaves in advance of any expected heavy rainfall.

Additional specialist tree surgeons are also on standby if needed.

With many people travelling today to be with family and friends over Christmas, drivers are urged to be prepared and check the latest updates ahead of their journeys and not to drive through any floodwater.

And if you come across standing water on the roads the advice is to reduce your speed; avoid heavy braking; slow down when approaching standing water; and turn and manoeuvre gently.

Vernon Smith, cabinet member for roads and flood said, “Our road crews put in tremendous effort battling against the elements around the clock to keep the county moving.”

“I would like to thank crews for their dedication braving the weather so we can go about our daily lives, especially in the run up to Christmas.”

“Gloucestershire County Council is prepared should stormy weather hit, and travellers should be prepared too. Please drive safely, check your journey and don’t drive through flood water.”

Richard Waters, highways manager at Gloucestershire Highways said, “The current forecast means we could see some problems with surface water on roads and fallen branches. We are monitoring the situation and are ready to respond if required.”

Will Windsor Clive, cabinet member for fire said, “Should bad weather hit fire crews are fully prepared to respond to help keep the county safe.”

You can report any issues on the roads via www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/reportit or call 08000 514 514.

Weather response updates will be posted on Twitter via @GlosHighways and @GlosCC.