A NEW flood warning has been issued by the Environment Agency for two Northwich villages which were badly affected by Storm Christoph last week.

The body has announced a red flood warning for the River Weaver at Acton Bridge and Weaverham – meaning flooding is expected and immediate action is required.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “River levels are rising at the Pickerings Cut river gauge as a result of persistent rainfall throughout this morning, January 28.

“We believe there is a possibility of flooding for some properties close to the River Weaver along Warrington Road and Sandy Lane at around 1pm this afternoon.

“We expect river levels to peak in the early hours of tomorrow, January 29, when they should start to fall.

“Please be aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with the current situation.”

Homes were wrecked by flood water along Sandy Lane, in Weaverham, and Warrington Road, in Acton Bridge, last week as Christoph hit Northwich – forcing residents to flee their properties.

Meanwhile, an amber flood alert for the rest of the River Weaver catchment including Northwich and Winsford is also in place, due to rising river levels at Hayhurst Bridge.

An Environment Agency spokesman added: “Flooding of low lying land, roads and farmland is possible this afternoon, going into this evening.

“We believe there is a possibility of flooding for low lying land and roads around the rivers Weaver, Ducklow and Wheelock and their tributaries.

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“The forecast for river levels at Hayhurst Bridge is expected to peak around 11pm tonight, January 28.”

A yellow weather warning for rain from the Met Office will be in force until midnight.