Heavy storms returned to parts of the West Midlands on Thursday evening, hampering recovery work after earlier intense rainfall caused significant flooding across the region. Local authorities, the Environment Agency and emergency services remain focused on supporting affected households and restoring transport links.
What happened and where
The latest downpours struck areas already badly hit by earlier flooding. The city of Birmingham reported that 55 properties experienced internal flooding, with water depths reaching as much as one metre in the worst-affected homes. Communities in Perry Barr, including Curbar Road, Thornbridge Avenue and Haddon Road, were among those impacted, prompting emergency crews to advise people to avoid those streets.
Other towns, notably Burntwood in Staffordshire and parts of Stafford, also reported flood damage. The Environment Agency issued a number of alerts and warnings for the wider West Midlands as rivers and drains struggled to cope with the volumes of water.
Transport and services
Rail services were disrupted by the weather. Lines were reported blocked at Hall Green and Solihull, with replacement buses running between Shirley and Stratford-upon-Avon. Damage to overhead electrical wires caused delays between Coventry and Nuneaton, further complicating journeys for commuters and travellers.
| Location | Main impact |
|---|---|
| Birmingham (Perry Barr) | Internal flooding to properties; roads affected |
| Burntwood | Flooding reported overnight |
| Rail corridor | Lines blocked; replacement buses; overhead wire damage |
Response and advice
The city council said it was working closely with partner agencies to help residents. Teams carried out door-to-door visits on Wednesday night to identify people who needed immediate assistance, and arrangements were made for follow-up support for council tenants and others impacted by the floods. Priority support was arranged for at least one vulnerable resident who relies on electrically powered medical equipment, with the National Grid notified to attend.
"We understand the significant impact that the flooding had had on residents in the area, and had been working closely with partner agencies to support those impacted," the council said.
Local officials explained that the immediate cause of the severe street and property flooding was the breaching of the banks of Perry Brook. Once the brook overflowed, the highway drainage network contributed to the spread of water across some residential areas.
- Stay safe: avoid floodwater — it can conceal hazards and be contaminated.
- Check travel: expect continued disruption on local rail routes and allow extra time for journeys.
- Look out for neighbours: emergency teams are prioritising people with medical dependencies and other vulnerabilities.
Outlook and confidence
Further heavy showers remain possible during unsettled conditions, which could complicate clean-up efforts and prolong disruption. Forecast confidence for isolated heavy bursts is moderate: short, intense showers are difficult to predict precisely in timing and location, so residents in low-lying areas and near watercourses should stay alert to updated Environment Agency warnings and local council advice.
Emergency services and councils are continuing assessments of property damage and drainage systems to inform any recovery work. For those affected, local authority pages and the Environment Agency website will carry the latest warnings and guidance on safety and claims for assistance.
Practical steps to take now include moving valuable items to higher ground within the home where safe to do so, avoiding driving through standing water, and registering concerns about vulnerable neighbours with local emergency teams or your council.
