The leader of Manchester council says town hall bosses will continue to monitor water levels across the city in the coming hours after residents had to be evacuated due to flooding.
Parts of the region have seen more than 80mm – three inches – of rain fall in the last 24 hours, leading to ‘severe’ flooding in many areas.
People have been rescued from cars and properties and roads and train lines have been closed. Emergency services declared a major incident as they dealt with the fall-out.
The area around the River Mersey in Didsbury, the River Irk in north Manchester and the River Medlock in the city centre and Clayton are among those affected.
The Factory and Joshua Brooks nightclubs both had to evacuate punters and close in the early hours due to, they said, flooding from the Medlock. The canals in Castlefield also overflowed whilst car parks were flooded.
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Manchester council has now confirmed a number of residents in areas where flood warnings are in place have been asked to leave their homes. They have been contacted directly and are being supported.
The town hall was unable to confirm exactly how many people had been evacuated and where. But they said water levels now appear to be falling and it was ‘unlikely’ any further evacuations would be required.
(Image: submitted)
“We have been working closely with the police, fire service and Environment Agency through the night to monitor water levels across the city – and provide support and guidance to our residents who might be affected,” council leader Bev Craig said in a statement.
“Some residents have been asked to evacuate where the Environment Agency has issued flood warnings, and these residents have been contacted directly and supported.
(Image: ABNM Photography)
“Thankfully we are seeing signs that water levels are beginning to fall, and it is unlikely that further evacuations will be necessary. However, water levels will continue to be monitored over the coming hours.
“We would ask anyone who is travelling today to take extra care and check the TfGM website for the latest updates and advice. And you can find information about what to do if your area is at risk of flooding on the Council’s website.
“I would like to thank our emergency services colleagues – alongside Council staff – for their efforts overnight and today in keeping Manchester residents safe.”