Flood warning issued as residents urged to 'act now'

A flood warning has been issued for the River Irwell on the edge of Greater Manchester.

The warning says that flooding is 'expected' at Strongstry and Chatterton in the Rossendale area and instructs residents to 'act now'. It comes as Storm Bert hits the UK this weekend bring it with it snow, wind and heavy rain with several weather warnings now in place.

A new flood warning issued this afternoon (November 23) reveals that the level of the River Irwell at Stubbins, half a mile north of Ramsbottom, has reached 1.71 metres. The warning states that property flooding is possible when the river level goes above 2 metres.

READ MORE: All the places in Greater Manchester where a flood warning is in place

The warning says: "Rising river levels are expected to cause flooding from now until daybreak Sunday 24 November 2024.

"Flooding is forecast to affect locations near the River Irwell, with low lying land and roads expected to be most affected, particularly around those adjacent to the River Irwell through Strongstry and Chatterton. Start acting on your flood plan if you have one.

"Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water."

The areas at risk of floods are those adjacent to the River Irwell through Strongstry and Chatterton including North Street, Strongstry Bridge and Chatterton Road. Other areas at risk include areas in the vicinity of Bolton Road North and the Cuba industrial estate.

A flood alert has also been issued for the Upper River Irwell catchment area. The Environment Agency says that rising river levels may lead to flooding of low lying land near the Rivers Beal, Roch and Croal, Limey Water and their tributaries.

Other locations which may be affected are around Farnworth, Whitefield, Little Lever, Radcliffe, Bury, Heywood, Whitworth and Bacup.