Children warned not to play near flood water as 26-hour rain warning issued

Today's dry spell looks to be an island of calm as the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain over a 26 hour period, coming into effect from 4am tomorrow (Friday) until 6am on Saturday, with 10mm-20mm of rain expected to fall across the warning area.
A yellow warning for wind is also in place, with gusts of up to 70mph predicted to rip through the district from 3pm on Friday until noon on Saturday.
The Met Office is warning people to be prepared for travel disruption and power cuts as trees may uproot in the strong winds.
However, a reprieve appears to be in sight as no warnings have been issued for Sunday or Monday.
This afternoon (Thursday) pumps were draining water from Northcroft Lane into the Kennet and Avon Canal.

The monkey bridge has closed and the water is said to be knee deep across the field that links it to the Northcroft Leisure Centre.
It has also said that the Downlands Sports Centre in Compton will be closed tomorrow (Friday) because of the current weather conditions and tomorrow's forecast.
The Council has said that the number of properties affected by flooding remains around 80, with homes in Burghfield, Compton, Eastbury, Great Shefford, Purley and Shaw being hit.
Last night the Environment Agency said that levels on the River Lambourn had been rising but are were starting to recede.
The agency said that the river remains sensitive to further rainfall over the coming days, particularly in the Shaw area, and that some isolated property flooding was possible, as well as disruption to local low lying roads.
The council has also said that the sporadic power cuts that hit Newbury last night have now been resolved.
It adds that with the half term break starting tomorrow (Friday) parents are being urged to ensure that children do not play near swollen rivers, streams and canal sides.
The council is also warning people that flood water is often contaminated with sewage and contact with flood water should be avoided wherever possible.
Health advice on flood related issues can be found here:

Communities are rallying in stricken areas and Good Samaritans who have not been affected by the floods have asked the council how they can help and the council is asking people to be 'a good neighbour' and check on elderly and vulnerable residents.
Advice on the flood situation can be found here:

Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police is calling on people not to be 'flood tourists' and drive through flooded roads as the waves can can cause additional damage to property and sandbag walls.