Amber weather warning for rain

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Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures

An amber weather warning for rain is in place across parts of the North West – including the Rochdale borough – for today (22 May) and tomorrow morning.

The Met Office warning is in place from 12pm on Wednesday through to 12pm on Thursday.

Rain will become heavy and persistent later Wednesday and Thursday with flooding and disruption likely.

What to expect

• Spray and flooding probably leading to difficult driving conditions and some road closures
• Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life
• A good chance some communities will be cut off by flooded roads
• Delays and some cancellations to train and bus services are likely
• Power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses likely

Rain becoming heavy and persistent during Wednesday afternoon before easing during Thursday morning. The heaviest rain is expected over north facing hills and where strong winds will enhance rainfall accumulations. Many places within the warning area will see 30-40mm of rain, with high ground of north west England seeing 70-90mm.

What should I do?

Keep yourself and others safe; prepare to avoid travelling by road during potentially dangerous road conditions. If you must travel, ensure you watch for possible danger and drive cautiously.

It is not safe to drive, walk or swim through floodwater, avoid it where possible and if you are affected by fast flowing or deep-water call 999, and wait for help.

Stay up to date with the weather forecast for your area and follow advice from emergency services and local authorities.