Environment Agency urges public to stay vigilant after North of England hit by flooding after month’s rain falls in a day.
Exceptional rainfall and record river levels have led to extensive flooding across parts of northern England.
And with further widespread rain forecast for later today into Sunday, the Environment Agency is warning people to stay vigilant.
Environment Agency staff worked through the night, issuing warnings, monitoring river levels and clearing blockages in rivers to help reduce the risk of flooding.
Flood warnings were issued to over 7,000 properties and over 11,000 homes and businesses were protected by Environment Agency defences. Flood defence schemes were operated at numerous locations including Preston, Wigan, Catterall and Garstang to protect homes.
Extreme rainfall
More than 100mm of rain – equivalent to one month’s rainfall – fell in just a few hours, leading to some rivers reaching their highest ever recorded level. Overnight, the River Calder at Hebden Bridge measured a record 3.2 metres.
An Environment Agency spokesman said:
“Our thoughts are with those people who have been affected by the floods.
“A month’s rain has fallen over parts of north west and north east England in the last 24 hours and with further rain expected later today we would urge public to remain vigilant and sign up to Environment Agency flood warnings.
“People can check the Environment Agency flood warning pages for updates. We also urge the public to stay away from fast-flowing, swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater.”
