Flooding across the North West easing but residents urged to remain vigilant

Rainfall across the region has cleared overnight and levels in the rivers worst affected this week are now starting to fall. Today is expected to be dry but there may be further showers across the region tomorrow (Friday) and into the weekend.

The Environment Agency is expecting to downgrade its current flood warnings later today as river levels continue to drop. However, members of the public are being reminded that even if levels are dropping flood water can be very dangerous.

Levels along the River Weaver in Northwich and Sankey Brook in St Helens are falling after flooding in the areas yesterday. The Environment Agency worked closely with other emergency services to respond to the flooding after several properties were flooded in the towns. Staff will also be out and about today to advise those people who have been affected by flooding on clear up.

Steve Moore, Regional Director for the North West Environment Agency, said: “The exceptional rainfall we have seen over the past few days has led to flooding across many parts of the North West and our thoughts are with those who have been affected over the past few days.

“Fortunately the forecast for today is that it will be much drier, allowing river levels to drop. While we may see a few more showers over the next few days they will not have a significant impact on river levels although our teams will continue to monitor them closely.

“We will continue to do everything we can to support flooded communities with advice, information and support as people come to terms with the impacts of this week’s floods. I would also urge people to remember not to walk or drive through flood water, which can be very dangerous.”

For the latest information please see our website or follow us on Twitter @EnvAgencyNW and keep a close eye on local weather forecasts.

Anyone concerned about potential flooding should visit the Environment Agency’s website www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood, call Floodline on 0845 988 1188 and follow us on twitter @EnvAgencyNW.

Click here to view details of Flood Warnings and Flood Alerts in place on your patch: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31618.aspx