Heavy rainfall over night in parts of Lancashire has resulted in the Environment Agency issuing 14 flood warnings and 14 flood alerts* for parts of the county today.



Environment Agency teams mobilised quickly during the early hours of this morning, operating flood basins at Garstang, Catterall and Wigan to relieve pressure on the local rivers Wyre, Ribble, Douglas and Lune thus protecting around 500 properties.

Rainfall is starting to pass through the county slowly over the next few hours, with river levels peaking this evening. As more rain is expected during this week, Environment Agency officers will continue to work 24/7 to monitor river levels, clear grids and remove any blockages from rivers to ensure that water can move freely.

Andy Brown, for the Environment Agency said “Heavy rainfall over night in parts of Lancashire has seen some rivers rise very quickly. Environment Agency teams worked quickly to minimize the flood risk, operate flood basins and monitor river levels.

“Specialist Flood Ambassadors are onsite in Lancaster, Croston, St Michaels-on-Wyre and Chorley working with local community action groups and individuals to provide flood advice and guidance.

“River levels will start to drop later on tonight as rain starts to pass. Environment Agency teams will continue to monitor river levels, clear grids and we will continue to issue further flood warnings and alerts where necessary. We urge local communities across Lancashire to remain vigilant, check www.gov.uk for updates and call Floodline on 0345 9881188 to register for free flood warnings.”