A new weather warning has been issued for Greater Manchester, as flooding batters the area on New Year’s Day.
There are currently more than 70 flood alerts in place throughout the region. Residents in areas of Stockport have been forced to evacuate their homes or abandon their cars following heavy rainfall overnight.
Rivers have reached record levels in and around Cheadle this morning (January 1). An amber weather warning for rain from the Met Office remained in force until 9am.
A less severe yellow warning for rain was in force until 11am across most of the North West.
Now the forecaster has issued a further alert for ice across the whole of the region. The yellow warning will be in place from 3pm today, as temperatures plummet and freeze much of the standing water across Greater Manchester.
Members of the public have been told to expect icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths. There may also be some injuries from falling.
The warning will remain in place until 10am on Thursday (January 2).
The Met Office yellow alert in place for ice
A spokesperson for the Met Office said: A band of rain, sleet and hill snow will clear southwards during Wednesday afternoon and evening. As skies clear in its wake, and with standing water following earlier rain in places, ice is likely to form quite quickly on untreated surfaces, leading to difficult travel conditions.
“Wintry showers are also likely along some north-facing coasts overnight, increasing the chance of ice in places. Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy. Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush, reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls.”