Heavy rain has forced the closure of the A38 and several local roads around Swadlincote, Derbyshire, on January 30, 2026, causing major travel delays for commuters and families. The dual carriageway is shut in both directions between the Branston Interchange and Clay Mills after standing water from recent heavy rainfall made the road impassable.
National Highways (West Midlands) said the route is impassable because of standing water. The Environment Agency and local flood reports say the River Trent has overtopped in low-lying areas and that heavy rainfall has led to backflow into highway drains, overwhelming drainage in places. Drivers are being told to avoid the area; authorities recommend leaving the A38 at Alrewas and using the A515 north and then the A50 east (rejoining at Toyota Island) as a diversion between Derby and Burton.
Local roads in Swadlincote are also affected, with Cadley Hill Road reported under water and routes in Bretby (Geary Lane/Ashby Road junction) and Willington (Repton Road) also blocked. These closures have disrupted school bus services and local morning commutes, and Derbyshire Police and traffic officers have warned people not to attempt to drive through standing water.
The Environment Agency has flood alerts in place for the Burton Trent area — its Burton Trent alert (updated 9:55am on 29 January 2026) warns that river levels remain high and further rainfall is expected. Residents can also follow local road-condition updates via Derbyshire Live as the situation develops.
If you need to report blocked drains or surface-water flooding on local streets, contact Derbyshire County Council. Officials recommend that residents stay on higher ground and only travel if it is absolutely necessary until the water begins to recede.
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