A flood alert has been issued in the North of England following a period of heavy rainfall. The Met Office alert says “river levels are rising” as local residents should prepare for the possibility of flooding. The River Ribble runs through North Yorkshire and Lancashire in Northern England, with the alert in place for the Upper section of the watercourse.
With further rainfall forecast in the region this afternoon, the river level is expected to increase, as the Met Office predicted it will “peak at around 15:00 before falling this evening”. The Environment Agency issues a flood alert when weather forecasts show that flooding may be possible from rivers, high tides, surges or strong winds at sea.
Full list of areas affected by the flood alert:
- Rivers Ribble, Hodder and other watercourses
- Settle to Samlesbury, which includes Clitheroe, Gisburn, Sawley, Waddington and Ribchester
For those in the regions where the alert is in place, the Met Office recommends following a pre-prepared flood plan. The forecaster also says to have insurance documents and any medications ready, avoid walking, cycling or driving through any flood water, and to move any livestock and farming equipment away from areas likely to flood.
When a flood alert is issued, the following are typically at risk: fields, recreational land and carparks, minor roads, farmland and coastal areas affected by spray or waves overtopping.
In the event of a flood, the Met Office has issued advice on how to prepare and stay safe. The forecaster says: “Turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies, if it’s safe to do so – do not touch an electrical switch if you’re standing in water.
“Move your family, vehicles, pets and important items to safety, for example, upstairs or to higher ground.
“If you have them, use flood protection products, for example, flood barriers or air brick covers and follow advice from your local council or the emergency services – you may be asked to evacuate.”
