Todmorden News

Environment Agency Issues Floodwatch Warning

UPDATE: The Environment Agency has now withdrawn the flood warnings for much of West Yorkshire, stating that the worst of the weather has now passed. On Friday, eight warnings were issued by the agency, and only one remains for the River Calder near Dewsbury.

The forecast of torrential downpours across the region has prompted the Environment Agency to issue a Floodwatch warning to residents in the Upper Calder valley. With up to 100mm of rain expected to fall over this weekend, residents who are at risk of flooding are being advised to prepare by switching off their electrical supply and sandbagging doors.

Many local residents and business owners will recall the severe flooding which occurred earlier this year when both Rochdale Road in Todmorden and Market Street in Hebden Bridge, were closed for lengthy periods due to being submerged, causing serious traffic problems in both towns. At that time, the flooding caused no major incidents with the exception of the articulated lorry (pictured) which accidentally reversed through the river bank wall at Stubbing Holme in Hebden Bridge, diverting flood water into the adjacent street.

Anyone concerned about the risk of flooding in their area can contact Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for further information and updates, or visit the Environment Agency website.