Environment Agency urges communities to stay vigilant ahead of wet weather

Heavy rain over the coming days could bring the risk of flooding in Northern England, the Environment Agency has warned.

A yellow weather warning is in place for the whole of the North West, with the heaviest rainfall expected across the hills of Cumbria and Lancashire. The Environment Agency is urging people to check their flood risk and remain prepared to take action as the situation changes.

In Ribchester and Billington in Lancashire, the Environment Agency is installing temporary flood barriers. These barriers are being installed as a precautionary measure to provide reassurance to the community and protect people and properties from any potential high river levels.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said:

“Successive bouts of heavy and persistent rainfall could bring surface water and river flooding to communities across parts of northern England from today and into early next week. River flooding is possible from Friday onwards, with continuous rainfall possibly leading to an escalation of the flood risk in the coming days. There is also a chance of localised flooding from tomorrow and into early next week.

“Environment Agency field teams are out erecting temporary barriers to protect communities where necessary, inspecting trash screens and clearing debris. We are ready to respond where needed, as well as offering practical assistance and advice to local authorities leading on responses to surface water flooding incidents. We are monitoring rainfall and river levels closely and are preparing to operate some of our flood defences, including storage basins, to help reduce the risk of flooding.

“As always, we advise people to be prepared for flooding and know their risk. Visit www.gov.uk/flood or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 for advice on how to prepare and sign up here for flood warnings. We also advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through flood water.”