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Severe flooding in Britain prompts Boxing Day evacuations – live Severe flooding in Britain prompts Boxing Day evacuations – live
(35 minutes later)
3.29pm GMT15:29
Five new severe flood warnings issued
The Environment Agency has issued five more severe flood warnings after the River Aire burst its banks in Leeds. The warning says:
Flooding is causing and expected to cause further impacts in central Leeds Area. This Severe Flood Warning has been issued because of significant impacts to infrastructure and risk to life in the area.
We have experienced record levels in the Aire Catchment. The peak at Leeds Crown Point is expected around 23:00 tonight. This is the highest ever record and higher than in 2007.
Bingley. River Aire has burst it's banks. Horrendous #flooding #westyorkshire #airedale pic.twitter.com/5Wt7vanWVw
@BBCLeeds @PandCExpress River Aire very high at Castleford, weir is barely visible! pic.twitter.com/fPYV6HeFM4
3.20pm GMT15:20
A section of the M62 trans-Pennine motorway is among a number roads closed by Greater Manchester police after flooding hit the north of Manchester’s wider metropolitan area.
The Bolton, Bury, Rochdale and Oldham areas are most affected and a number of road closures have been put in place, the force said.
“We are working to identify and prioritise those most urgently in need of support and a Multi Agency Strategic Coordination Group will be held at 1pm today and further advice will follow,” GMP said in a statement.
Rochdale town centre pic.twitter.com/1mac59pGxD
3.05pm GMT15:05
Politicians are calling on the Government to rethink cuts to Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG). Those departments are responsible for much of the spending on flood defences and preparation.
Lib Dem leader Tim Farron said:
Coming a single day after Christmas is utterly terrible for those communities and my heart goes out to all those affected. The Government can and must do more to help people. But part of that response must be to look again at the swingeing cuts to departments like DCLG and Defra that will be needed to help communities back onto their feet.
Simon Danczuk, MP for Rochdale, said:
Our top priority at the moment is to ensure the health and safety of Rochdale residents at this difficult time. But I think there are serious lessons to be learned by the Environment Agency, which has repeatedly ignored warnings from local people that flooding on this scale was likely to happen.
The Government’s massive budget cuts have left the Environment Agency as a remote and impotent organisation which is unable to respond sufficiently when risks like this occur. We now need urgent investment in order to get necessary work done and get the infrastructure in place to prevent something like this from happening again.
3.03pm GMT15:03
Power cut to 10,000 homes in Rochdale and Lancashire
Around 10,000 homes in Rochdale and Lancashire have lost their electricity supply after flood waters hit a main substation.
Electricity North West said extra engineers have been on standby and teams are working to repair the damage. Mark Williamson, operations director for Electricity North West, told PA:
We’re continuing to work hard in extremely difficult conditions to restore supplies to as many people as we can as quickly as possible, but severe flooding has caused damage to local substations in Rochdale and Lancashire.
We have drafted in extra engineers and will continue to work throughout the day to get everyone back on and we are here 24 hours a day seven days a week so please contact us if you need any advice or information.
3.02pm GMT15:02
As darkness falls, a serious warning by Lancashire fire and rescue service:
It's getting dark now. If you've been asked to evacuate please do so. We don't want to have to rescue you later. #lancs alert
2.57pm GMT14:57
With flooding apparently increasingly commonplace in Britain, thoughts are inevitably turning to the question of why. Guy Shrubsole, a campaigner with Friends of the Earth, says the answer is climate change. He says:
Our thoughts are with the families facing misery over the festive season as floods yet again batter Britain.
The record rainfall and repeated floods this month are a sad sign of our changing climate, and highlight the need for greater action by the government.
The Prime Minister’s flood resilience review must result in more investment in flood defences, and radical cuts to the carbon emissions that are super-charging our weather.
2.53pm GMT14:532.53pm GMT14:53
Padiham, Lancashire, which lies on the river Calder, is also flooded. David Griffiths tweeted me with these pictures of the scene there.Padiham, Lancashire, which lies on the river Calder, is also flooded. David Griffiths tweeted me with these pictures of the scene there.
@damiengayle Visiting Padiham today - this is what it looks like pic.twitter.com/HkC1pl0dN6@damiengayle Visiting Padiham today - this is what it looks like pic.twitter.com/HkC1pl0dN6
2.46pm GMT14:462.46pm GMT14:46
Nigel BunyanNigel Bunyan
Residents of Whalley and Ribchester were either fleeing or being rescued from their flooded homes on Boxing Day, after two rivers flowing through their town burst their banks, Nigel Bunyan reports.Residents of Whalley and Ribchester were either fleeing or being rescued from their flooded homes on Boxing Day, after two rivers flowing through their town burst their banks, Nigel Bunyan reports.
A hundred soldiers from 2nd Battalion Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment were drafted in to help fire crews and police teams locate the worst-affected and help them to safety.A hundred soldiers from 2nd Battalion Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment were drafted in to help fire crews and police teams locate the worst-affected and help them to safety.
Lt Col Hamish Cormack, commanding officer of 2nd Battalion, said: “The water levels are still rising so it’s very much a case of ‘wait and see’ and plan for the worst case.”Lt Col Hamish Cormack, commanding officer of 2nd Battalion, said: “The water levels are still rising so it’s very much a case of ‘wait and see’ and plan for the worst case.”
His team are now veterans of the recent spate of flooding across northern England. “We started out in Cumbria with Storm Desmond a couple of weeks ago, and have been heading further south since then,” he said.His team are now veterans of the recent spate of flooding across northern England. “We started out in Cumbria with Storm Desmond a couple of weeks ago, and have been heading further south since then,” he said.
“We’ve covered Carlisle, Keswick, Appleby and Workington already – and now we’re here in Lancashire.”“We’ve covered Carlisle, Keswick, Appleby and Workington already – and now we’re here in Lancashire.”
my sister's village Whalley in Lancashire has been evacuated by the army @WeatherCee @barrabest @angie_weather pic.twitter.com/KZ7rssubY6my sister's village Whalley in Lancashire has been evacuated by the army @WeatherCee @barrabest @angie_weather pic.twitter.com/KZ7rssubY6
Forecasters issued a severe weather warning on Christmas Day. In the early hours of Boxing Day the Ribble burst its banks and began pouring through the streets.Forecasters issued a severe weather warning on Christmas Day. In the early hours of Boxing Day the Ribble burst its banks and began pouring through the streets.
Margaret Pye, 76, a retired hairdresser, her 72-year-old husband and their son, Alan, 51, a gardener, spent hours carrying possessions upstairs. But shortly before midday they decided it was time to leave. They walked down Whalley’s main street with their 28-year-old cockatiel, Tweety Pye, in his cage and being carried by a soldier.Margaret Pye, 76, a retired hairdresser, her 72-year-old husband and their son, Alan, 51, a gardener, spent hours carrying possessions upstairs. But shortly before midday they decided it was time to leave. They walked down Whalley’s main street with their 28-year-old cockatiel, Tweety Pye, in his cage and being carried by a soldier.
“It’s all a bit of a shock, but we’re all still smiling”, said Margaret. “You have to, don’t you? At the end of the day we’re safe – and so is Tweety Pye. That’s all that matters.”“It’s all a bit of a shock, but we’re all still smiling”, said Margaret. “You have to, don’t you? At the end of the day we’re safe – and so is Tweety Pye. That’s all that matters.”
Roads being closed through #Whalley #ribblevalley Floods expected to peak c. 11:00 #lancashirefloods pic.twitter.com/QpnPicb1PzRoads being closed through #Whalley #ribblevalley Floods expected to peak c. 11:00 #lancashirefloods pic.twitter.com/QpnPicb1Pz
However, rescue efforts were being hampered by the refusal of some families to leave their homes as the water steadily rose.However, rescue efforts were being hampered by the refusal of some families to leave their homes as the water steadily rose.
“It’s frustrating,” said one police officer. “We can’t force people to see sense. The last thing we want is to have to send people in to rescue people who a couple of hours earlier have insisted they’re not leaving.”“It’s frustrating,” said one police officer. “We can’t force people to see sense. The last thing we want is to have to send people in to rescue people who a couple of hours earlier have insisted they’re not leaving.”
Kelly Hughes, a local hair stylist, spent the morning barricading her salon with sandbags. Earlier she had stood in the street trying to keep traffic from creating waves that then washed up against nearby homes.Kelly Hughes, a local hair stylist, spent the morning barricading her salon with sandbags. Earlier she had stood in the street trying to keep traffic from creating waves that then washed up against nearby homes.
“I just feel sorry for all the people having to be rescued from their homes. It’s such a shame,” said Hughes. “My friend lives just round the corner and its up to the windowsills in her house. It’s just awful for her – just terrible.”“I just feel sorry for all the people having to be rescued from their homes. It’s such a shame,” said Hughes. “My friend lives just round the corner and its up to the windowsills in her house. It’s just awful for her – just terrible.”
2.27pm GMT14:272.27pm GMT14:27
The water at Ribchester has now reached its highest level on record.The water at Ribchester has now reached its highest level on record.
#Ribchester where flooding has occurred, highest recorded river levels, all sympathy for those affected pic.twitter.com/aU4WbWui2Z#Ribchester where flooding has occurred, highest recorded river levels, all sympathy for those affected pic.twitter.com/aU4WbWui2Z
2.26pm GMT14:262.26pm GMT14:26
Three more severe flood warnings issuedThree more severe flood warnings issued
Waters have now breached flood defences along the river Calder at Eastwood, Callis Bridge and Charlestown, at Todmorden, and along the Walsden Water at Walsden and Todmorden, the Environment Agency has warned.Waters have now breached flood defences along the river Calder at Eastwood, Callis Bridge and Charlestown, at Todmorden, and along the Walsden Water at Walsden and Todmorden, the Environment Agency has warned.
If you want to find out the situation in your area, it’s best to check the EA’s live flood warnings page.If you want to find out the situation in your area, it’s best to check the EA’s live flood warnings page.
Man clings on to avoid being swept away by Todmorden Floods #Todmordenfloods #Todmorden pic.twitter.com/rf8fgKCK9wMan clings on to avoid being swept away by Todmorden Floods #Todmordenfloods #Todmorden pic.twitter.com/rf8fgKCK9w
2.18pm GMT14:182.18pm GMT14:18
Cumbria, where towns suffered severe flooding earlier this month, has so far today been spared the worst of the inundations after rain expected to fall in the county instead fell on Lancashire and Yorkshire.Cumbria, where towns suffered severe flooding earlier this month, has so far today been spared the worst of the inundations after rain expected to fall in the county instead fell on Lancashire and Yorkshire.
However, flood sirens are now beginning to sound in Cumbria’s towns, according to Cumbria police.However, flood sirens are now beginning to sound in Cumbria’s towns, according to Cumbria police.
Flood siren activated in Appleby, to allow residents adequate time in daylight to prepare for potential flooding tonight. Defences in placeFlood siren activated in Appleby, to allow residents adequate time in daylight to prepare for potential flooding tonight. Defences in place
The Environment Agency earlier told PA that 85% of the country’s temporary flood barriers had been sent to Cumbria, where rainfall has smashed records.The Environment Agency earlier told PA that 85% of the country’s temporary flood barriers had been sent to Cumbria, where rainfall has smashed records.
2.12pm GMT14:122.12pm GMT14:12
A 200-year-old former pub has been destroyed by flooding at Summerseat, Greater Manchester.A 200-year-old former pub has been destroyed by flooding at Summerseat, Greater Manchester.
Part of the ancient building, which sits on a bridge over the River Irwell, was swept away in the raging waters.Part of the ancient building, which sits on a bridge over the River Irwell, was swept away in the raging waters.
Resident Andrew Watson told ITV News: “The 200-year-old former mill and ex pub the Waterside has collapsed into the River Irwell at Summerseat near Bury, the road is now blocked and some of the building is blocking the River Irwell.”Resident Andrew Watson told ITV News: “The 200-year-old former mill and ex pub the Waterside has collapsed into the River Irwell at Summerseat near Bury, the road is now blocked and some of the building is blocking the River Irwell.”
The rains battered the waterside building in summerseat pic.twitter.com/DioWu50oHgThe rains battered the waterside building in summerseat pic.twitter.com/DioWu50oHg
The Waterside Inn #Summerseat begins to collapse River Irwell in #Lancashire pic.twitter.com/kvCJpld32YThe Waterside Inn #Summerseat begins to collapse River Irwell in #Lancashire pic.twitter.com/kvCJpld32Y
1.30pm GMT13:301.30pm GMT13:30
The Met Office has tweeted this graphic of the band of rain sweeping across Britain and Ireland today.The Met Office has tweeted this graphic of the band of rain sweeping across Britain and Ireland today.
Northwest Wales and northwest England have seen some of the heaviest rain so far today https://t.co/3z44khZPVJNorthwest Wales and northwest England have seen some of the heaviest rain so far today https://t.co/3z44khZPVJ
1.29pm GMT13:291.29pm GMT13:29
SummarySummary
1.10pm GMT13:101.10pm GMT13:10
The Press Association has posted this update from Whalley, one of the Lancashire towns badly affected by flooding this afternoon:The Press Association has posted this update from Whalley, one of the Lancashire towns badly affected by flooding this afternoon:
The main road in the village, King Street, was submerged as some residents were evacuated by rescue boats as the water levels continued to rise with the persistent downpourThe main road in the village, King Street, was submerged as some residents were evacuated by rescue boats as the water levels continued to rise with the persistent downpour
A lack of available sandbags was a cause of concern as the emergency services and the Army worked tirelessly at the scene.A lack of available sandbags was a cause of concern as the emergency services and the Army worked tirelessly at the scene.
Hairdresser Kellie Hughes, who lives in King Street, said the situation was “a million times worse” than a fortnight ago when the same street was flooded.Hairdresser Kellie Hughes, who lives in King Street, said the situation was “a million times worse” than a fortnight ago when the same street was flooded.
She said: “It’s just horrific, really bad. I’ve got the sandbags down here and just doing the best I possibly can.She said: “It’s just horrific, really bad. I’ve got the sandbags down here and just doing the best I possibly can.
“There are no more sandbags anywhere. People are panicking. That’s my business and my home, it’s a double whammy.”“There are no more sandbags anywhere. People are panicking. That’s my business and my home, it’s a double whammy.”
Elswhere, the road through Ribchester was completely submerged as was parts of the main road through Padiham town centre nearly Burnley.Elswhere, the road through Ribchester was completely submerged as was parts of the main road through Padiham town centre nearly Burnley.
There don’t seem to be any press photographers in the area at the moment, but here are two tweets showing the situation in the area today.There don’t seem to be any press photographers in the area at the moment, but here are two tweets showing the situation in the area today.
The river is a lake: #whalley pic.twitter.com/xAkv4arqnLThe river is a lake: #whalley pic.twitter.com/xAkv4arqnL
#Whalley #ribblevalley #LancashireFloods police and army coordinating evacuations pic.twitter.com/TZLT3JAMTj#Whalley #ribblevalley #LancashireFloods police and army coordinating evacuations pic.twitter.com/TZLT3JAMTj
1.06pm GMT13:061.06pm GMT13:06
Giles Perkins, who I spoke to earlier about the situation in Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire, has posted this update on Instagram from the town.Giles Perkins, who I spoke to earlier about the situation in Hebden Bridge, Yorkshire, has posted this update on Instagram from the town.
This is how the town usually looks:This is how the town usually looks:
Hebden Bridge before the #flooding. Taken on #Christmas Eve. Beautiful place #hebdenbridge pic.twitter.com/gxx9NOCmrqHebden Bridge before the #flooding. Taken on #Christmas Eve. Beautiful place #hebdenbridge pic.twitter.com/gxx9NOCmrq
1.02pm GMT13:021.02pm GMT13:02
Roads across north Wales are closed due to heavy flooding, with police in the region warning people against all but essential travel.Roads across north Wales are closed due to heavy flooding, with police in the region warning people against all but essential travel.
The Met Office has now issued an amber warning - its second highest - for the area. “Heavy rain is expected to continue at times for the rest of Boxing Day across northwest Wales, although easing off for a time this afternoon,” the warning says. “Given totals so far over Snowdonia, and reported impacts, be prepared for further medium impacts from flooding.”The Met Office has now issued an amber warning - its second highest - for the area. “Heavy rain is expected to continue at times for the rest of Boxing Day across northwest Wales, although easing off for a time this afternoon,” the warning says. “Given totals so far over Snowdonia, and reported impacts, be prepared for further medium impacts from flooding.”
Don’t travel unless you have to is the message from North Wales Police, as roads across #NorthWales are closed due to heavy flooding.Don’t travel unless you have to is the message from North Wales Police, as roads across #NorthWales are closed due to heavy flooding.
River level in #StAsaph under the #A55. On patrol along the banks for now. Updates to follow. @NWPolice pic.twitter.com/xOCw2DGm3hRiver level in #StAsaph under the #A55. On patrol along the banks for now. Updates to follow. @NWPolice pic.twitter.com/xOCw2DGm3h
Supt Nigel Harrison, of North Wales police, said: “There is serious flooding across North Wales and we are advising people not to travel unless it is absolutely essential, and then to allow extra time for journey as driving conditions may be difficult.”Supt Nigel Harrison, of North Wales police, said: “There is serious flooding across North Wales and we are advising people not to travel unless it is absolutely essential, and then to allow extra time for journey as driving conditions may be difficult.”
Shops in Bangor are already flooded and the fire brigade are out in low lying towns pumping water in an effort to avert more serious flooding, according to Geraint Thomas, who lives in the region.Shops in Bangor are already flooded and the fire brigade are out in low lying towns pumping water in an effort to avert more serious flooding, according to Geraint Thomas, who lives in the region.
Thomas, a resident of the hilltop village Deiniolen, Gwynedd, says that with the A55 and A5 cut off by flooding, routes in and out of north Wales are effectively blocked. The valleys below where he lives are all inundated, he said. “We are effectively cut off, we can’t go in or out in any direction.”Thomas, a resident of the hilltop village Deiniolen, Gwynedd, says that with the A55 and A5 cut off by flooding, routes in and out of north Wales are effectively blocked. The valleys below where he lives are all inundated, he said. “We are effectively cut off, we can’t go in or out in any direction.”
Updated at 1.03pm GMTUpdated at 1.03pm GMT
12.34pm GMT12:3412.34pm GMT12:34
Twelve severe flood warnings are now in place in Yorks and LancsTwelve severe flood warnings are now in place in Yorks and Lancs
Hebden Bridge, Mytholmroyd, Todmorden and Walsden in Yorkshire have been added to the list of severe flood warnings earlier circulated by the Environment Agency.Hebden Bridge, Mytholmroyd, Todmorden and Walsden in Yorkshire have been added to the list of severe flood warnings earlier circulated by the Environment Agency.
Residents of those towns are being warned to take immediate action and prepare for property flooding. Whalley, Ribchester and St Michael’s on Wyre in Lancashire had earlier been placed under severe flood warnings.Residents of those towns are being warned to take immediate action and prepare for property flooding. Whalley, Ribchester and St Michael’s on Wyre in Lancashire had earlier been placed under severe flood warnings.
A statement just circulated by the agency says:A statement just circulated by the agency says:
On Saturday 26 November as at 11:30 there are 12 severe flood warnings which mean a danger to life, 176 warnings and 89 flood alerts in place across England.On Saturday 26 November as at 11:30 there are 12 severe flood warnings which mean a danger to life, 176 warnings and 89 flood alerts in place across England.
There is a high risk of flooding for communities in Lancashire and North and West Yorkshire and across the north of England including in Cumbria, and Greater Manchester.There is also the potential for some flooding along parts of the River Severn in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire over the weekend and into Monday.There is a high risk of flooding for communities in Lancashire and North and West Yorkshire and across the north of England including in Cumbria, and Greater Manchester.There is also the potential for some flooding along parts of the River Severn in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire over the weekend and into Monday.
In Yorkshire the Environment Agency is advising people to prepare for flooding on Boxing Day and Sunday 27 December as heavy rain is forecast in Calderdale, Airedale (from Skipton to Leeds) and North Yorkshire including York, Pateley Bridge and Catterick.In Yorkshire the Environment Agency is advising people to prepare for flooding on Boxing Day and Sunday 27 December as heavy rain is forecast in Calderdale, Airedale (from Skipton to Leeds) and North Yorkshire including York, Pateley Bridge and Catterick.
12.30pm GMT12:3012.30pm GMT12:30
Most, if not all of Lancashire’s firefighters are out dealing with the floods and flood warnings in the county at the moment, according to a spokesman.Most, if not all of Lancashire’s firefighters are out dealing with the floods and flood warnings in the county at the moment, according to a spokesman.
Two boat crews and five swift water boat crews are among the teams responding to the situation, helping to evacuate residents. They are being assisted by Lancashire police and, earlier, the army.Two boat crews and five swift water boat crews are among the teams responding to the situation, helping to evacuate residents. They are being assisted by Lancashire police and, earlier, the army.
Whalley, Ribchester and St Michaels are still the worst affected towns, and the only ones so far subject to evacuation.Whalley, Ribchester and St Michaels are still the worst affected towns, and the only ones so far subject to evacuation.
12.09pm GMT12:0912.09pm GMT12:09
Statement on flooding by Environment SecretaryStatement on flooding by Environment Secretary
Liz Truss has chaired a new meeting of the government’s COBR committee this morning to plan the response to the flooding in the north. Describing the situation as “fast moving,” she says that officials, emergency services and soldiers have already been sent to the worst-affected areas. Truss said:Liz Truss has chaired a new meeting of the government’s COBR committee this morning to plan the response to the flooding in the north. Describing the situation as “fast moving,” she says that officials, emergency services and soldiers have already been sent to the worst-affected areas. Truss said:
Torrential rain throughout the night and continuing this morning in Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria has made protecting communities there our primary concern today.Torrential rain throughout the night and continuing this morning in Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria has made protecting communities there our primary concern today.
Severe flood warnings were issued early this morning by the Environment Agency, due to the impact of further rain on already saturated ground, in Lancashire. There are also ongoing concerns around possible impacts in Yorkshire which we are monitoring closely.Severe flood warnings were issued early this morning by the Environment Agency, due to the impact of further rain on already saturated ground, in Lancashire. There are also ongoing concerns around possible impacts in Yorkshire which we are monitoring closely.
Overnight local response teams worked to mitigate the expected effects of the coming rain including deploying temporary defences, and we are warning and informing across these areas with the help of police to alert residents to be prepared to evacuate. Rest centres are opening across Lancashire.Overnight local response teams worked to mitigate the expected effects of the coming rain including deploying temporary defences, and we are warning and informing across these areas with the help of police to alert residents to be prepared to evacuate. Rest centres are opening across Lancashire.
This is a very fast moving situation and we have been deploying critical response teams and personnel overnight to where they are most needed.This is a very fast moving situation and we have been deploying critical response teams and personnel overnight to where they are most needed.
The Environment Agency, emergency services and military personnel have sent significant resources overnight to Lancashire and Yorkshire to help protect people, homes and businesses as well as maintaining the response in Cumbria.The Environment Agency, emergency services and military personnel have sent significant resources overnight to Lancashire and Yorkshire to help protect people, homes and businesses as well as maintaining the response in Cumbria.
I chaired a further meeting of the government’s COBR committee this morning to assess the impact of the overnight rainfall and to ensure additional support is deployed to where it is be needed today.I chaired a further meeting of the government’s COBR committee this morning to assess the impact of the overnight rainfall and to ensure additional support is deployed to where it is be needed today.
Our priority throughout this period continues to be protecting lives, protecting homes and protecting businesses.Our priority throughout this period continues to be protecting lives, protecting homes and protecting businesses.
I would like to again pay tribute to the tireless work of front line staff over the last month and the Christmas period, and the extraordinary resilience of the people affected, which I have seen first hand.I would like to again pay tribute to the tireless work of front line staff over the last month and the Christmas period, and the extraordinary resilience of the people affected, which I have seen first hand.
My thoughts and sympathy continue to be with people flooded out of their homes this Christmas and I can assure them we are doing everything we can to help communities recover from these storms.My thoughts and sympathy continue to be with people flooded out of their homes this Christmas and I can assure them we are doing everything we can to help communities recover from these storms.
Since early December we have made available £60 million in funding to help householders and businesses affected.Since early December we have made available £60 million in funding to help householders and businesses affected.
12.04pm GMT12:0412.04pm GMT12:04
BBC North West Tonight has posted this footage of people being evacuated from flooding in Whalley, Lancashire. As many as 600 people have been rescued from there and neighbouring towns so far this morning.BBC North West Tonight has posted this footage of people being evacuated from flooding in Whalley, Lancashire. As many as 600 people have been rescued from there and neighbouring towns so far this morning.
Residents in Whalley are being rescued by the emergency services. pic.twitter.com/JxINx6EYIWResidents in Whalley are being rescued by the emergency services. pic.twitter.com/JxINx6EYIW
12.01pm GMT12:0112.01pm GMT12:01
There is also flooding in Anglesey, Wales, according to tweets posted this morning. I’m trying to contact people in the area to find out more about what’s happening there.There is also flooding in Anglesey, Wales, according to tweets posted this morning. I’m trying to contact people in the area to find out more about what’s happening there.
@AngleseyScMedia @Llangefni River Cefni by Asda pic.twitter.com/GOKJzjnuIj@AngleseyScMedia @Llangefni River Cefni by Asda pic.twitter.com/GOKJzjnuIj
If you're going to or from Anglesey today...DON'T pic.twitter.com/WTj8q8ynXlIf you're going to or from Anglesey today...DON'T pic.twitter.com/WTj8q8ynXl
Flooding in Anglesey. Why is North Wales never mentioned in news coverage? @BBCNews pic.twitter.com/K5p4bt4Ox5Flooding in Anglesey. Why is North Wales never mentioned in news coverage? @BBCNews pic.twitter.com/K5p4bt4Ox5
Updated at 12.01pm GMTUpdated at 12.01pm GMT
11.46am GMT11:4611.46am GMT11:46
As many as 600 people have so far been evacuated from their homes in Whalley, Ribchester and St Michaels, where severe flood warnings are in place.As many as 600 people have so far been evacuated from their homes in Whalley, Ribchester and St Michaels, where severe flood warnings are in place.
All three locations are already flooded.All three locations are already flooded.
The river at St Michaels at the moment. Please avoid the area as we may have to close the road. pic.twitter.com/M9v7kFnlf8The river at St Michaels at the moment. Please avoid the area as we may have to close the road. pic.twitter.com/M9v7kFnlf8
The force has issued this statement on its website:The force has issued this statement on its website:
Residents in Whalley and Ribchester are being taken to a rest centre at Longridge Civic Hall, Willow Park, Calder Avenue, Longridge, with residents in St Michaels urged to take shelter at the Grapes Pub in Garstang Road. People are advised to stay away from these areas so that they don’t impede evacuations.Residents in Whalley and Ribchester are being taken to a rest centre at Longridge Civic Hall, Willow Park, Calder Avenue, Longridge, with residents in St Michaels urged to take shelter at the Grapes Pub in Garstang Road. People are advised to stay away from these areas so that they don’t impede evacuations.
Lancashire is currently experiencing the rainfall expected to fall in Cumbria and potentially a further 50mm to 80 mm may fall in the next six to nine hours as the band of rain currently over Lancashire moves northwards in the afternoon before returning in the early to mid-evening.Lancashire is currently experiencing the rainfall expected to fall in Cumbria and potentially a further 50mm to 80 mm may fall in the next six to nine hours as the band of rain currently over Lancashire moves northwards in the afternoon before returning in the early to mid-evening.
Other areas in the county are experiencing more localised flooding.Other areas in the county are experiencing more localised flooding.
Tim Harbour has posted this video to Instagram of the scene in St Michaels. It’s unclear where the river begins and ends.Tim Harbour has posted this video to Instagram of the scene in St Michaels. It’s unclear where the river begins and ends.
Lancashire fire and rescue are advising people to stay off the roads, with heavy rain predicted to continue battering the county for rest of the afternoon.Lancashire fire and rescue are advising people to stay off the roads, with heavy rain predicted to continue battering the county for rest of the afternoon.
#lancsert the rain is awful across the whole county. Don't drive if you don't need to please https://t.co/UXYyFG4nAr#lancsert the rain is awful across the whole county. Don't drive if you don't need to please https://t.co/UXYyFG4nAr
Updated at 11.49am GMTUpdated at 11.49am GMT
11.35am GMT11:3511.35am GMT11:35
Met Office red warning extended to Yorkshire and the HumberMet Office red warning extended to Yorkshire and the Humber
A second red weather warning - danger to life - has been issued by the Met Office, with residents of Yorkshire now also being told to take action to avoid floods.A second red weather warning - danger to life - has been issued by the Met Office, with residents of Yorkshire now also being told to take action to avoid floods.
Todmorden in West Yorkshire has been hit by flooding and the waters are continuing to rise as the rain keeps falling. Resident Lee Fraser, who lives on Halifax Road, told PA the road between the town and the neighbouring village of Hebden is submerged.Todmorden in West Yorkshire has been hit by flooding and the waters are continuing to rise as the rain keeps falling. Resident Lee Fraser, who lives on Halifax Road, told PA the road between the town and the neighbouring village of Hebden is submerged.
The agency quoted him as saying:The agency quoted him as saying:
It’s getting worse and worse, it’s been raining really heavily since last night. The siren went off at about 7am this morning and 10 minutes later everything started flooding.It’s getting worse and worse, it’s been raining really heavily since last night. The siren went off at about 7am this morning and 10 minutes later everything started flooding.
A lot of people are moving their stuff upstairs in their houses and the police came and closed the roads. It’s absolutely tipping it down, so it’s only going to get worse by the look of it.A lot of people are moving their stuff upstairs in their houses and the police came and closed the roads. It’s absolutely tipping it down, so it’s only going to get worse by the look of it.
The Environment Agency has issued 87 warnings and 27 alerts for flooding in Yorkshire on Saturday and Sunday.The Environment Agency has issued 87 warnings and 27 alerts for flooding in Yorkshire on Saturday and Sunday.
Heavy rains are expected to affect Calderdale, Airedale (from Skipton to Leeds) and North Yorkshire including York, Pateley Bridge and Catterick.Heavy rains are expected to affect Calderdale, Airedale (from Skipton to Leeds) and North Yorkshire including York, Pateley Bridge and Catterick.
11.16am GMT11:1611.16am GMT11:16
A resident of Hebden Bridge has posted a set of photos online showing the rising waters in the Yorkshire town, where flooding in some areas is said to be as much as four feet deep.A resident of Hebden Bridge has posted a set of photos online showing the rising waters in the Yorkshire town, where flooding in some areas is said to be as much as four feet deep.
Giles Perkins, 48, told the Guardian that he went into the town centre just after the flood siren sounded at 7am and watched as the waters from the River Calder rose until it broke its banks, sending torrents rushing through the streets.Giles Perkins, 48, told the Guardian that he went into the town centre just after the flood siren sounded at 7am and watched as the waters from the River Calder rose until it broke its banks, sending torrents rushing through the streets.
Emergency services have been joined by volunteers from all around and small business owners are out trying to rescue as much of their stock as possible as waters continue to rise, he said.Emergency services have been joined by volunteers from all around and small business owners are out trying to rescue as much of their stock as possible as waters continue to rise, he said.
“The low-lying businesses that are on Market Street, lots of those business owners have been down there trying to move their stock,” Perkins said. “I’ve just been inside own of those shops and it’s been breached totally.”“The low-lying businesses that are on Market Street, lots of those business owners have been down there trying to move their stock,” Perkins said. “I’ve just been inside own of those shops and it’s been breached totally.”
Perkins, who is now back at home, said that as he was wading through the town the waters were up to his waist. Waters had risen since then to about three or four feet, he said. Some areas are worse affected than others.Perkins, who is now back at home, said that as he was wading through the town the waters were up to his waist. Waters had risen since then to about three or four feet, he said. Some areas are worse affected than others.
“There’s higher ground in between [flooded sections], so you’ve got long sections of flooding then islands, then long sections of flooding,” Perkins said.“There’s higher ground in between [flooded sections], so you’ve got long sections of flooding then islands, then long sections of flooding,” Perkins said.
“It’s still raining hard. River levels are still rising, sadly,” he added. You can see more of Perkins’ pictures on his Instagram account.“It’s still raining hard. River levels are still rising, sadly,” he added. You can see more of Perkins’ pictures on his Instagram account.
Updated at 11.26am GMTUpdated at 11.26am GMT
10.51am GMT10:5110.51am GMT10:51
Scots face 16 flood warningsScots face 16 flood warnings
Sixteen flood warnings have been issued in Scotland covering the Borders and Tayside areas. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) also has three ‘be prepared’ flood alerts in place in the north east and Dumfries and Galloway.Sixteen flood warnings have been issued in Scotland covering the Borders and Tayside areas. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) also has three ‘be prepared’ flood alerts in place in the north east and Dumfries and Galloway.
You can find out if your area is affected on the agency’s flood updates web page.You can find out if your area is affected on the agency’s flood updates web page.
In the Outer Hebrides, CalMac ferry sailings were cancelled for the day in North Uist and South Uist. Services have also been affected on Bute and the Isle of Lewis.In the Outer Hebrides, CalMac ferry sailings were cancelled for the day in North Uist and South Uist. Services have also been affected on Bute and the Isle of Lewis.
Traffic Scotland urged caution over surface water on the roads in the Fife and Lothian and Borders regions.Traffic Scotland urged caution over surface water on the roads in the Fife and Lothian and Borders regions.
10.41am GMT10:4110.41am GMT10:41
A number of Boxing Day football and racing events have been called off because of the floods, the Press Association reports.A number of Boxing Day football and racing events have been called off because of the floods, the Press Association reports.
The match between Blackpool and Oldham was postponed, as were the games between Hartlepool and Notts County, Morecambe and Mansfield and Accrington and Carlisle.The match between Blackpool and Oldham was postponed, as were the games between Hartlepool and Notts County, Morecambe and Mansfield and Accrington and Carlisle.
Officials at Wetherby cancelled both days of their Christmas fixture and this afternoon’s meeting at Limerick has also been abandoned.Officials at Wetherby cancelled both days of their Christmas fixture and this afternoon’s meeting at Limerick has also been abandoned.
10.38am GMT10:3810.38am GMT10:38
Torrents of water are flowing through the streets of Hebden Bridge, according to this unverified video posted to Instagram this morning.Torrents of water are flowing through the streets of Hebden Bridge, according to this unverified video posted to Instagram this morning.
Instagram user Cakebikecake has posted a number of videos showing the situation in the Yorkshire town today.Instagram user Cakebikecake has posted a number of videos showing the situation in the Yorkshire town today.
10.23am GMT10:2310.23am GMT10:23
Residents of two northern towns evacuatedResidents of two northern towns evacuated
Residents in Whalley and Ribchester, Lancashire, have been told to abandon their houses when flood waters poured through the streets after torrential downpours.Residents in Whalley and Ribchester, Lancashire, have been told to abandon their houses when flood waters poured through the streets after torrential downpours.
Lancashire fire and rescue, police and soldiers have been on the scene helping people leave their homes. Lancashire constabulary have confirmed an evacuation is underway.Lancashire fire and rescue, police and soldiers have been on the scene helping people leave their homes. Lancashire constabulary have confirmed an evacuation is underway.
A severe flood warning means danger to life. It doesn't mean "come and have a look"! Please don't come to visit Whalley or Ribchester now.A severe flood warning means danger to life. It doesn't mean "come and have a look"! Please don't come to visit Whalley or Ribchester now.
10.06am GMT10:0610.06am GMT10:06
People are beginning to post pictures of the flood carnage on Twitter.People are beginning to post pictures of the flood carnage on Twitter.
The Waterside has collapsed in Summerseat #Bury #Ramsbottom #floodaware pic.twitter.com/D1tIRlpMUyThe Waterside has collapsed in Summerseat #Bury #Ramsbottom #floodaware pic.twitter.com/D1tIRlpMUy
This is a photo from a friends shop in #Mytholmroyd c2015 copyrights Simon Coning pic.twitter.com/SxRLe8w0A2This is a photo from a friends shop in #Mytholmroyd c2015 copyrights Simon Coning pic.twitter.com/SxRLe8w0A2
Situation in #HebdenBridge about half an hour ago #floodaware pic.twitter.com/QuuM1PqgXvSituation in #HebdenBridge about half an hour ago #floodaware pic.twitter.com/QuuM1PqgXv
Beer barrels floating down Burnley Road, as bad (if not worse) than 2012 floods. Poor old Dusty Miller. pic.twitter.com/g7tr31jha1Beer barrels floating down Burnley Road, as bad (if not worse) than 2012 floods. Poor old Dusty Miller. pic.twitter.com/g7tr31jha1
Saltaire Weir... almost disappeared. #floodaware #saltaire #riveraireflooding pic.twitter.com/3DgqpqMRI4Saltaire Weir... almost disappeared. #floodaware #saltaire #riveraireflooding pic.twitter.com/3DgqpqMRI4
10.01am GMT10:0110.01am GMT10:01
Met Office red warning issued for rain in LancashireMet Office red warning issued for rain in Lancashire
Forecasters have urged people in Lancashire to “take action” ahead of heavy rainfall expected to inundate the county this afternoon, with up to 100mm likely over higher ground.Forecasters have urged people in Lancashire to “take action” ahead of heavy rainfall expected to inundate the county this afternoon, with up to 100mm likely over higher ground.
The Met Office has issued a red warning - it’s most-serious advisory - for the region, where a band of rain will slowly sweep across bringing heavy rainfall for a six to nine hour period.The Met Office has issued a red warning - it’s most-serious advisory - for the region, where a band of rain will slowly sweep across bringing heavy rainfall for a six to nine hour period.
The ground is already saturated and further rainfall is expected to lead to widespread river flooding and surface water flooding, forecasters warn.The ground is already saturated and further rainfall is expected to lead to widespread river flooding and surface water flooding, forecasters warn.
Anyone in an area affected by a red warning should take action to keep themselves and others safe, according to Met Office guidelines. “Widespread damage, travel and power disruption and risk to life is likely. You must avoid dangerous areas and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities,” the agency says.Anyone in an area affected by a red warning should take action to keep themselves and others safe, according to Met Office guidelines. “Widespread damage, travel and power disruption and risk to life is likely. You must avoid dangerous areas and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities,” the agency says.
Amber and Yellow warnings - calling for people to “be prepared” and “be aware”, respectively - are also in place for other parts of Lancashire, Cumbria, northwest Wales and parts of Scotland.Amber and Yellow warnings - calling for people to “be prepared” and “be aware”, respectively - are also in place for other parts of Lancashire, Cumbria, northwest Wales and parts of Scotland.
Paul Mustow, deputy director in flood and coastal risk management at the Met Office’s flood forecasting centre, said:Paul Mustow, deputy director in flood and coastal risk management at the Met Office’s flood forecasting centre, said:
Our thoughts are with all those who have had their homes and businesses flooded, some several times, in the run up to Christmas. Our operational teams are working throughout the Christmas period to take action to reduce the potential impacts of flooding and support those communities affected.Our thoughts are with all those who have had their homes and businesses flooded, some several times, in the run up to Christmas. Our operational teams are working throughout the Christmas period to take action to reduce the potential impacts of flooding and support those communities affected.
With further rain forecast, we urge people to remain vigilant and check their or follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest flood updates. We also want to remind people never to drive through flood water: just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.With further rain forecast, we urge people to remain vigilant and check their or follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest flood updates. We also want to remind people never to drive through flood water: just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.
9.43am GMT09:439.43am GMT09:43
The Twitter feed for the Environment Agency in Yorkshire and North East has posted this map, showing the concentration of alerts and warnings in the region.The Twitter feed for the Environment Agency in Yorkshire and North East has posted this map, showing the concentration of alerts and warnings in the region.
There's more rain across Yorks and the North East - check your flood risk here https://t.co/MDa2PJFyFM #floodaware pic.twitter.com/zfOqFq1qleThere's more rain across Yorks and the North East - check your flood risk here https://t.co/MDa2PJFyFM #floodaware pic.twitter.com/zfOqFq1qle
To check if your area is subject to a flood warning you can look at this environment agency web service: flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/mapTo check if your area is subject to a flood warning you can look at this environment agency web service: flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/map
9.26am GMT09:269.26am GMT09:26
Flood warnings across the north and WalesFlood warnings across the north and Wales
Householders in the north of England have been warned to take their Christmas presents and other valuables upstairs as the Environment Agency issued 149 flood warnings and 123 alerts.Householders in the north of England have been warned to take their Christmas presents and other valuables upstairs as the Environment Agency issued 149 flood warnings and 123 alerts.
The warnings, which mainly cover the north west, the north east and Wales, come as forecasters said up to 120mm (4.7ins) of rain could fall in some areas already saturated by winter storms.The warnings, which mainly cover the north west, the north east and Wales, come as forecasters said up to 120mm (4.7ins) of rain could fall in some areas already saturated by winter storms.
Seven of the warnings - among them two locations on the River Ribble at Ribchester and three locations on the River Calder at Whalley - have been classed as severe, meaning the weather conditions there pose a potentially deadly threat.Seven of the warnings - among them two locations on the River Ribble at Ribchester and three locations on the River Calder at Whalley - have been classed as severe, meaning the weather conditions there pose a potentially deadly threat.
A red weather warning, the most serious alert, for heavy rain and flooding in Lancashire was issued by the Met Office this morning. As well as moving valuables, people are advised to take advice from emergency services about evacuation.A red weather warning, the most serious alert, for heavy rain and flooding in Lancashire was issued by the Met Office this morning. As well as moving valuables, people are advised to take advice from emergency services about evacuation.