The Environment Agency is warning communities in Surrey that persistent heavy rain will lead to an increased risk of flooding over the next few days.

The forecast heavy rain could cause surface water flooding in local communities and see a rise in river levels, increasing flood risk to communities, and disrupting travel as roads and rail lines may be affected.

Environment Agency staff are working across the county to reduce the risk and impact of flooding, and are using temporary flood barriers in Guildford and Leatherhead.

There are currently 13 flood alerts and 2 flood warnings in force across the county, and with further rainfall forecast this figure is expected to go up.

Ian Nunn, Duty Manager for the Environment Agency, said:

Heavy downpours across Surrey could lead to surface water flooding and significant disruption to travel today, Friday, and into the weekend. Due to the heavy rain, we are planning to put up temporary flood barriers in Guildford, on Mary Road, through the bus depot and on to Leas Road today and in Leatherhead at Guildford Road bridge if required.

Our teams have been out on the ground checking flood defences, clearing debris from rivers, and will continue to support our partners to reduce the impacts of the heavy rain. We will issue flood warnings and alerts where necessary.

We urge the public to prepare to take action when at risk of flooding, even if a temporary barrier is in place. There are a number of things you can do to prepare for flooding to keep yourself and your family safe. Find out if your home is at risk, sign up for flood warnings and be ready to take action. For more information visit www.gov.uk/flood or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

People should remain vigilant, check their flood risk and plan to stay safe. We advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to walk or drive through flood water as just 30cm/12inches of flowing water is enough to move your car.

People on Twitter can follow updates on flood-risk on the Environment Agency’s South East and national accounts, @EnvAgencySE and @EnvAgency.