Emergency services in Greater Manchester have declared a major incident and told people to travel ‘only if neccessary’ as they deal with the fall-out of widespread ‘severe’ flooding.
Parts of the region have seen more than 80mm (three inches) of rain fall in the last 24 hours. Rivers have burst their banks with streets becoming submerged and water gushing into homes.
Residents in some properties say they were left trapped and had to be evacuated by firefighters. Whilst others were rescued from cars submerged on flooded roads.
In an update issued this morning (Wednesday), Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were co-ordinating the emergency service response along with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS).
They said they were contnuing to receive reports regarding ‘damage, risk to life and stranded vehicles’ following the flooding. They said that Bolton, Didsbury, Harpurhey, Stalybridge, Stockport and Wigan were the areas which had seen the greatest impact.
GMP said officers, along with ‘specialist resources’ including mountain rescue teams, had been deployed to help with transport and travel and to help GMFRS with any required rescue efforts.
Police and the fire service have decalred a major incident
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Chief Superintendent Colette Rose said: “Following events overnight a major incident has been declared. This is to ensure we can continue to keep people safe through a co-ordinated effort from our collective emergency services, supported by key partner agencies.
“Anyone affected should check the relevant detail being shared by their local council, the fire service and Transport for Greater Manchester to ensure they can get the support available, which include any road closures and information centres for those displaced. It is advised to travel if it is only necessary and to take care if out and about.
“Our officers with the fire service are in the key locations and can be spoken to if you need anything urgently, as we understand the distress those affected will be faced with as we begin 2025. It will be a continued team effort as we monitor how the weather and water levels progress throughout today.”
Flooding at Bramhall Park roundabout. Police say people should only travel today ‘if neccessary’
(Image: Andy Cronshaw)
A total of 55 flood warnings – which means flooding is expected and nearby residents should ‘act now’ – are currently in place across the region, along with 15 flood alerts, which mean flooding is possible.
The Environment Agency say that if your area has a flood warning or severe flood warning you should:
- turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies, if it’s safe to do so – do not touch an electrical switch if you’re standing in water
- move your family, vehicles, pets and important items to safety, for example upstairs or to higher ground
- if you have them, use flood protection products, for example flood barriers or air brick covers
- follow advice from your local council or the emergency services
GMP said that if flooding has affected your area, you can contact Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or by text on 0345 602 6340, or contact your local authority