AS THE clear-up operation continues following the devastation caused by the storms, extra resources are ready to respond to more wet weather and strong winds forecast for the New Year.

Hampshire County Council has increased the number of highways emergency crews, with tankers and jetters ready to deal with water on the roads and blocked gullies.

Extra arboriculture teams are also on standby ready to move fallen trees.

During the last week, highways teams have responded to more than 1,300 incidents of fallen trees and flooded roads across Hampshire’s highway network.

Priority has had to be given to fixing problems on the main roads, including A and B routes.

While some minor roads are still affected, teams are aware of issues on these routes and will attend to them as soon as possible.

However, the council has warned that it could take weeks to clear up.

The county council's Emergency Planning Team is also prepared and on standby, to support the emergency services and to assist those who need help with emergency situations that may be caused by heavy rainfall.

Highways teams will continue to be busy on New Year’s Day responding to weather related incidents.

The public are encouraged to report road problems online at hants.gov.uk/roadproblems.

Anyone with concerns about an older or vulnerable person should call 0845 603 5630 or out of hours 0845 600 4555.

Councillor Seán Woodward, executive member for economy, transport and environment at Hampshire County Council, said: "We are in a good position to deal with any issues arising from the predicted wet and windy weather over the New Year. Our teams have given up their Christmas breaks and have been working flat out over the last week to keep Hampshire moving, for which I cannot thank them enough.

“It is anticipated they will be busy on New Year’s Day and beyond clearing up after this next bout of bad weather. Our maintenance teams are likely to be very stretched and it will be necessary to prioritise locations. I would ask people to bear with us while we do all we can to clear roads and incidents of flooding quickly.

"Fortunately, at this time of year there is generally less traffic on the roads but I would ask everyone to take particular care if they are travelling. Sudden, very heavy downpours can lead to roads and pavements flooding quickly.

“ Please heed any warning signs that are placed on the highway. Do not attempt to drive through or walk through fords and be extra careful driving through any road surface water as it may be difficult to judge its depth."