Further flood fears for North West

Stocks of sandbags are being replenished after 8,000 were distributed since Tuesday.

Weather Map/Met Office
Published 25th Aug 2017
Last updated 25th Aug 2017

Statutory agencies say they are ready to respond to any further flooding in the North West.

There are fears of localised flooding after forecasters predicted more heavy showers for this afternoon.

Less than 72 hours after the North West was hit by unprecedented flooding the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning.

Chief Forecaster had this assessment, "Rain across southern areas will turn more showery later this morning, with heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms developing through the afternoon, before dying out slowly this evening."

"Although some places will be dry, there is the potential for 10-15 mm of rain within an hour from the heavier showers and very locally 25 mm in 2 to 3 hours."

Weather Map/Met Office

"Given the recent wet conditions, there is the possibility of localised flooding of homes and businesses as well as susceptible roads."

The PSNI, Fire and Rescue Service along with agencies like Northern Ireland Water are on standby to respond to any further flooding that may occur.

A statement from the department for Communities says, "Staff from all agencies are on the ground monitoring the situation, including latest weather reports and ready to respond if necessary."

"The agencies continue to work together on the clean-up operation and are grateful for the patience of local people as this important work continues."

"Regional Community Resilience Groups have been advised of weather patterns and to make appropriate preparations."

Stocks of sandbags are being replenished after 8 thousand were distributed since Tuesday.

The scale of the damage caused earlier this week is still emerging; BT for example is dealing with over 3 thousand faults on its network the highest ever recorded

To report incidents of flooding, contact the flooding incident line on 0300 2000 100

All calls will be answered however, waiting times may be longer when there is a high volume of calls.

Callers have been advised to phone 999 if there is a risk to life or you feel you are in danger and need the assistance of the emergency services.

Road users are reminded to adhere to road signs and any temporary traffic lights, to avoid roads affected by flooding if possible and to take care driving