Environment Agency issues region-wide flood warning (From St Helens Star)

Environment Agency issues region-wide flood warning

5:39pm Friday 24th August 2012 in News

THE Environment Agency is warning that there could be a risk of flooding from rivers and surface water over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Heavy, slow moving showers and more prolonged periods of rain are expected to affect the North West on Saturday, particularly in Lancashire and Cheshire, according to forecasts.

A brief respite is predicted for many places on Sunday before another band of heavy rain pushes into all parts of the North West on Monday.

This rain will fall on already saturated ground, increasing the risk of flooding.

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

It is also working with local partners to ensure that surface water flooding is minimised where possible and is urging local communities to remain vigilant and to prepare a plan in advance, so they know what to do if flooding occurs.

Sally Sudworth, the Environment Agency’s flood executive for the North West, said: “People should check if they are at risk of flooding, keep an eye on the weather and check local forecasts so that they have time to react if flooding looks imminent in their neighbourhood.

“We have all sorts of tools available to help you stay one step ahead of the weather. By visiting our website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk you can keep tabs on our three-day forecast and check the latest flood alerts and warnings for your area.

“You can also find tips and advice for staying safe and check our Flood Map to see if your community is at risk of flooding from rivers and the sea. “You can follow us on Facebook and Twitter and download a Flood App to your smart phone that will alert you to flooding in whichever area you choose to monitor.

“You can contact the Floodline on 0845 988 1188 to find out if you can sign up for our Flood Warnings Direct service, or to get further advice on how to prepare for flooding. “The most important thing to remember is to stay safe – plan ahead, be prepared, keep an eye on vulnerable members of your community to make sure they are OK and never walk or drive through flood water.”