Flood warning issued for Friday and Saturday (From Northwich Guardian)

Flood warning issued for Friday and Saturday

5:00pm Thursday 5th July 2012 in News

A FLOODING warning has been issued for Friday and Saturday.

Latest forecasts show that up to 100mm of rain could fall in the north west starting at 5am on Friday morning.

Northern and eastern Lancashire and Greater Manchester as well as South Cumbria are most likely to be hit.

But Cheshire could also be affected.

A spokesman for the Environment Agency said: "We are urging the public to remain vigilant, check local weather forecasts, and the Environment Agency website for information.

"The Environment Agency has mobilised teams across the north to check and clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels."

More than 5.5million, or one in six, properties are at risk of flooding from all types of floods across England and Wales.

Surface water flooding occurs when the drainage system cannot cope with rainfall. The spokesman added: "It is extremely difficult to predict precisely where surface water flooding will happen as it depends on ground levels, the amount of rainfall, and the local drainage network."

Steve Moore, director of the Environment Agency in the north west, said: “Our latest forecasts show that over the next 36 hours, some parts of the north west region could experience very heavy rainfall.

"We are experiencing a period of very unsettled weather and, where necessary, our teams are out monitoring river levels and ensuring that blockages to rivers and drains are removed." Anyone with concerns can call the Floodline on 0845 988 1188.