Emergency services are taking stock after a hectic night of calls across Staffordshire.
Police revealed how strong winds and heavy rainfall led to yesterday (February 12) being busier than a New Year’s Eve would typically be.
Between 5.30pm and 8pm, 425 emergency 999 calls were made to police, with a further 691 calls to the 101 non-emergency line.
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service also endured a testing period, which led to a ‘multi-agency’ operations room being set up to manage the response to the weather.
Ch Inspector David Bird said: “Many local people are helping us out by reporting incidents and local farmers have been helping us at some incidents and clearing roads. We would like to thank you all for your support.”
Meanwhile, Staffordshire County Council’s highways teams worked through the night to keep roads in the region closed and clear fallen trees.
Cllr Mark Winnington said: “We have been working closely with colleagues in other agencies through the night to keep people safe and the county moving so it has been a real combined effort.
“The main issues have been around trees and other debris in the road as well as flooding.
“The teams will be out again today as there may still be some affected roads. We’re expecting a break in the severe weather today but will be monitoring conditions.
“Unfortunately it looks like there will be more bad weather over the weekend which we are prepared for.
“We’d urge people to check the forecast and drive with extra care.”
Flood alerts remain in place for parts of Burton, Tamworth and Rugeley.
