Continuous heavy rain has caused widespread disruption in Greater Manchester. Streets in Salford were submerged on Saturday evening, while train services and main roads experienced severe delays and restrictions.
Flood Warnings Issued in Several Areas
The Environment Agency has confirmed that flood warnings have been issued for Trafford, Stockport, South Manchester, Salford, Bury, and Bolton. Alerts have also been issued for Wigan, Tameside, and surrounding areas.
A flood alert means flooding is likely and people should prepare, while a flood warning means flooding is certain and immediate action is necessary.
Flood warnings in place across Greater Manchester overnight after hours of torrential rain
Rising River Levels a Cause for Concern
The River Irwell in Bury has risen rapidly. It rose from 0.34 meters on Saturday morning to 1.47 meters early Sunday morning. The flood risk is at 1.68 meters, so authorities have advised people to remain vigilant as rain is expected to continue overnight.
Road and Rail Traffic Impacted
- Traffic in the North-West region was severely affected:
- Waterlogging on the M61 and M62 motorways forced lane closures.
- Rail services between Bolton and Blackburn were halted, while buses were diverted between Manchester Piccadilly, Glossop, and Hadfield.
- Football matches and local events were cancelled due to flooding at grounds and venues.
Local authorities issued a warning
Councillors in Trafford and Warrington advised people to avoid non-essential travel. Warrington MP Sarah Hall said emergency teams were on standby, and some areas were knee-deep in water. Trafford Council also warned drivers not to attempt to drive through flooded roads.
Met Office Alert
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain for Greater Manchester until 6 a.m. Sunday. Officials said homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure are at risk of flooding. However, the weather is expected to improve and sunshine will appear on Sunday afternoon.
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People are also asking
Question: Which areas of Greater Manchester are under flood warnings?
Answer: Flood warnings are in place for Trafford, Stockport, Salford, Bury, and Bolton. An alert has also been issued for Wigan and Tameside.
Question: What is the difference between a flood alert and a flood warning?
Answer: A flood alert means flooding is possible—people should prepare. A flood warning means flooding will occur and immediate action is required.
Question: What is the current level of the River Irwell?
Answer: By Sunday morning, the river level at Bury Ground reached 1.47 meters, slightly below the danger level of 1.68 meters.
Question: Are train services running in Greater Manchester?
Answer: Train services between Bolton and Blackburn are suspended. Meanwhile, buses have been arranged on some lines in Manchester as rail operations have been affected due to waterlogging and signal failure.