Severe flood warnings in parts of UK as Army helps

Parts of northwest England already hit hard by flooding in recent weeks were under severe flood warnings Saturday because of forecasts for more heavy rain, with some areas being evacuated.

More than 300 flood alerts were put in place across the country, including 15 at the most severe level while the Met Office issued two of its most serious red weather warnings – danger to life – for the area.

There are also 17 flood alerts in place across the region, meaning flooding is possible.

As Storm Eva approached mainland Britain the Met Office expanded its amber warning of rain for Boxing Day, to encompass areas of Lancashire and western areas of both North and West Yorkshire.

Flood waters poured through the streets of Whalley and Ribchester after torrential downpours and homes were evacuated in the village of St Michael’s on Wyre, which has been flooded several times this month.

British soldiers have been deployed in some of the areas hit by heavy rain.

“All the roads in and out of Todmorden have been closed, I don’t think we can get out of the town”.

A gas explosion was also reported in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, in relation to the floods.

Armed forces personnel have been brought in to assist the fire service, police and Lancashire County Council with evacuations after the River Calder burst its banks in Whalley.

Those who live near waterways who are concerned about flooding in their areas should check the Environment Agency floodline on 0345 988 1188.

Weve had teams out on the ground monitoring river levels and removing blockages from screens to keep the rivers flowing, and were working closely with our partners.

“If you live in an affected area please do not travel and if you home has been flooded stay out of the water and wait for help”.

Electricity North West has warned that some properties may be without power until Monday.

“When the road surface experiences rainfall like we’ve had today, even a slight change in temperature can cause weakness in the road surface”, said a Highways Agency official.

Highways England will start design and construction work to fix the A591, and investigate what is required to restore Pooley Bridge and Eamont Bridge, in Cumbria, in the New Year. Many other parts of the village are flooded.

“This is the highest ever record and higher than in 2007. People are panicking. That’s my business and my home, it’s a double whammy”. It’s essential motorists drive with extra care and we’d ask people not to take the risk of driving through anything that looks like deep water – this can cause cars to become stranded but also poses a threat to homes and businesses at the road side, which can suffer damage when passing vehicles create waves.