Storm Gareth prompts 'vigilance' warning in Lancaster district as rivers begin to rise

People are being asked to "remain vigilant" as more heavy rain is expected across the Lancaster district.
The River Lune at HaltonThe River Lune at Halton
The River Lune at Halton

The Environment Agency said it had been working throughout the night monitoring the rainfall and river levels across Lancashire and Cumbria.

A flood alert has been issued for the River Lune today, Tuesday March 12, while residents and businesses whose properties and premises have flooded in the past worry about the potential for more misery.

The River Lune at HaltonThe River Lune at Halton
The River Lune at Halton
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Environment Agency said that the rain overnight wasn’t as bad as first forecast and therefore the rivers haven’t risen as much as initially predicted, however another band of heavy rain is expected to fall late Wednesday and early Thursday morning, on to already wet catchments.

It said it had people on the ground clearing debris from grids and channels in rivers to help reduce any impacts from Storm Gareth, and this has included staff visiting flood hotspots to offer advice on how best to protect their property.

A spokesperson said: "It’s important that people do remain vigilant, be prepared and know your risk in your location.

"The best way to protect yourself from flooding is to know what to do in advance.

The river Lune from Brookhouse. Photo by Tim Nye.The river Lune from Brookhouse. Photo by Tim Nye.
The river Lune from Brookhouse. Photo by Tim Nye.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"You can download our free, simple flood plan online via .gov.uk. This includes specific actions, such as moving electrical and valuable items, checking on vulnerable neighbours and emergency contact numbers."

Meanwhile motorists are being advised to take care on the roads.

Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com said: “Driving in stormy weather can be incredibly dangerous and overwhelming for motorists, and the number of drivers who have had an accident or near-miss in these conditions should be enough to encourage others to take extra care on the roads.

The Environment Agency have issued a flood alert for the river LuneThe Environment Agency have issued a flood alert for the river Lune
The Environment Agency have issued a flood alert for the river Lune
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Knowing what to do or how to react while driving in these conditions can be quite confusing for drivers. Some may know the best course of action to take, but this might not always be the case. Our guide offers some simple tips on how to drive safely in these turbulent conditions, as well as advice on how to claim for storm damage to a car.

“Our research shows that nearly one in five (18%) go out of their way to stay off the roads in stormy weather. But we know some motorists can’t avoid driving in rain or wind, so we urge them to make sure they are fully prepared and plan ahead to avoid dangerous routes."