News
Motorists reminded to take care after heavy rainfall
Dated: 04 Aug 2012
Update Sunday 5 August, 10pm
Police are continuing to work with partners following heavy rainfall in the area earlier today, Sunday, August 5.
Various areas throughout the force have been affected mainly South Tyneside and Gateshead.
There have been a number of disruptions to roads and transport.
The Swing Bridge has been closed due to debris caused by the flooding. It is expected to remain closed through the night and into tomorrow morning. Motorists travelling on Monday morning are advised to find an alternative route.
All other roads have now reopened.
Superintendent Mick Paterson said: "There have been a number of disruptions around the force after a downfall of rain this afternoon. We have been working with our partners to monitor the situation and ensure their is as minimal disruption to people as possible.
"Most the roads have now reopened however the Swing Bridge in Gateshead remains closed.
Metro stations are closed at Gateshead Central, Jesmond and Newcastle Central Station. There are no trains running from Monument and Heworth. Other trains are running but with delays. For any further information or updates visit http://www.nexus.org.uk/ for more details or follow @My_Metro.
People seeking advice about flooding in their area can ring the Environment Agency Floodline on 0845 9881188. Further advice can be found www.environment-agency.gov.uk
To report any issues to police contact 101 ext 69191.
Update Sunday 5 August, 5.30pm
Police continue to work with partners after heavy rainfall in the area. Weather improving and roads starting to clear. Some road closures are in place:
South Tyneside:
Lindisfarne Roundabout under the A19
Leam Lane between Whitemare Pool and Lindisfarne Roundabout
Jarrow Road near Tyne Dock
Tyne Dock junction with Boldon Lane
Tyne Dock junction with Commercial Road
Gateshead:
Felling by-pass junction with Eastwood Gardens
Newcastle:
Central Motorway closed Northbound and in parts Southbound
Metro running slightly reduced service visit http://www.nexus.org.uk/ for more details of follow @My_Metro
UPDATE: Sunday 5 August, 3.50pm
Police are urging motorists to be vigilant when out on the roads after heavy rainfall around the force.
Areas of Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside and South Tyneside have had heavy rainfall which has caused some disruption to the roads.
The weather appears to have settled at this time but officers and partners are working to clear traffic and deal with some localised flooding.
Police advice to only travel when necessary and take precautions.
For information on weather conditions visit the Met Office website. To report any severe flooding contact police on 101 ext 69191.
UPDATE: Sunday 5 August, 1.10pm
Any drivers who are experiencing heavy rainfall are reminded to drive according to the weather conditions. Drive at a slower speed, make sure you leave plenty of distance from the vehicle in front and avoid driving into standing water where possible.
For information on weather conditions for the area visit the Met Office website
Update: Saturday 4 August, 6.30pm
The earlier diversion on the A69 at Melkridge in Northumberland, eastbound onto the Military Road to help ease congestion, has now been lifted. The road is now open and passable with care.
Update: Saturday 4 August - 6pm
The A69 at Melkridge in Northumberland has been diverted eastbound onto the Military Road to help ease congestion. Motorists are advised to take care.
Update: Saturday 4 August - 4.50pm
The A69 is now passable with care over its entire length.
Update: Saturday 4 August - 4.30pm
The A69 Eastbound from Haltwhistle is currently impassable.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area until the water subsides.
Saturday 4 August, 2012 - 4pm
Police have received reports of local flooding in Haltwhistle, Northumberland due to heavy rain at 2.40pm on Saturday, August 4.
The junction at the East End of Haltwhistle is now closed.There is heavy surface water on the A69 which is currently passable but starting to flood in places. The A69 is down to one lane beside Melkridge with reports of mud on the road causing a hazard. Water is also on the Military Road.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area until the water subsides.
Emergency services and the local authority are responding to the situation and are dealing with the surface water.
Any drivers who are experiencing heavy rainfall should drive according to the weather conditions. Drive at a slower speed, make sure you leave plenty of distance from the vehicle in front and avoid driving into standing water where possible.
For information on weather conditions for the area visit the Met Office website.
Chief Superintendent Gary Calvert said: "We are working closely with the other emergency services and partner agencies to plan and respond to any flooding
"People seeking advice about flooding in their area can visit the Environment Agency website for information about flooding.
"We are asking people to monitor local media for the latest updates."