Flood warnings issued for East Lancashire

The Met Office has predicted up to 100mm of rain could fall on the North-West today leading to a risk of flooding.

The Environment Agency has issued 11 amber flood warnings for the region. The rivers Calder, Brun, Don and Pendlewater, from Laneshaw Bridge to the River Ribble including Trawden, Burnley, Nelson, Colne, Accrington and Whalley, could be worse hit by floods.

Fire crews across East Lancashire have been put on high alert to deal with flash flooding over the weekend.

The Environment Agency has mobilised teams across the North to check and clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels.

Officials are also working with local partners to ensure that surface water flooding is minimised where possible.

Steve Moore, Director of the Environment Agency in the North West region said: “Our latest forecasts show that over the next 36 hours, some parts of the North West region could experience very heavy rainfall.

“We are experiencing a period of very unsettled weather and, where necessary, our teams are out monitoring river levels and ensuring that blockages to rivers and drains are removed.”

This latest wave of heavy rainfall comes just weeks after areas of Burnley, Pendle and the Ribble Valley suffered localised flooding and disruption.

The public are encouraged to remain vigilant and those concerned about flooding can call Floodline 0845 988 1188. Keep up to date with the latest flood alerts and warnings on the Environment Agency website.