Heavy rain forecast for weekend

Yellow rain warning affecting the North West

A yellow weather warning for rain is in place across parts of the North West – including the Rochdale borough – on Saturday and Sunday (31 October & 1 November).

The Met Office warning is in place from 00.01am to 9pm on Saturday and  9am through to 11.59pm on Sunday.

This is in addition to the yellow weather warnings for rain in place for Thursday and Friday (29 & 30 October).

Periods of heavy rain may lead to flooding and disruption to transport.

Following wet weather in the area on Thursday and Friday, further spells of heavy rain are expected during Saturday. An additional 20-30 mm can be expected widely with 40-60 mm across higher ground. Across some hills and mountains 80-100 mm may accumulate. Strong winds are likely with potential for leaf fall to exacerbate flooding in places.

Outbreaks of rain will spread across the UK during Sunday with prolonged spells of heavy rain likely across Wales and north west England. Following heavy rain in these areas during previous days, further flooding impacts and disruption to transport is likely. Strong winds are likely with potential for leaf fall to exacerbate flooding in places.

The Environment Agency is urging people to check their flood risk and remain prepared to take action as the situation changes.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Successive bouts of heavy and persistent rainfall could bring surface water and river flooding to communities across parts of northern England from today and into early next week. River flooding is possible from Friday onwards, with continuous rainfall possibly leading to an escalation of the flood risk in the coming days. There is also a chance of localised flooding from tomorrow and into early next week.

“Environment Agency field teams are out erecting temporary barriers to protect communities where necessary, inspecting trash screens and clearing debris. We are ready to respond where needed, as well as offering practical assistance and advice to local authorities leading on responses to surface water flooding incidents. We are monitoring rainfall and river levels closely and are preparing to operate some of our flood defences, including storage basins, to help reduce the risk of flooding.

“As always, we advise people to be prepared for flooding and know their risk. Visit www.gov.uk/flood or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 for advice on how to prepare and sign up here for flood warnings. We also advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through flood water.”

What to expect

• Homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings
• Fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, causing a danger to life
• Delays or cancellations to train and bus services are possible
• Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
• Some communities may be cut off by flooded roads
• Possible power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses