Storm Franklin: Severe flood warnings in Didsbury and Northenden lifted

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Severe flood warnings covering the River Mersey in Didsbury and Northenden have now been lifted, the Environment Agency has said.

Warnings covering the upper River Irwell area - for Oldham, Bolton, Rochdale, Haslingden, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall - and for the lower Irwell have also been taken off the official list.

The news came at around 9.30am after a night of fear for many.

READ MORE: Dozens of trees fall and block roads as region battered by Storm Franklin

Council bosses, however, said emergency evacuation operations have now been stood down.

A flood 'alert' remains in force for the areas, and the council said it would likely continue through the week until the Didsbury flood basin empties.

Severe flood warnings were in place for the River Mersey in East Didsbury, and at West Didsbury and Northenden, after Storm Franklin brought heavy and persistent rain.

In a morning update for both areas, the Environment Agency said: "This severe flood warning has been removed.

"However, a flood alert for the area remains in place, meaning that there is a possibility of flooding to properties.

"The Environment Agency will continue to monitor the situation and will inspect the area for any other impacts.

"Please be aware that there may still be risks around the River Mersey due to high river levels.

"Please do not attempt to drive through flood water and avoid using low lying footpaths."

Properties in West Didsbury and Barlow Moor, around Princess Road, Riverside Avenue and Mersey Crescent, were said to be at risk.

The warning covered homes on Stanton Avenue to Palatine Road, and around Kenworthy Lane and Ford Lane in Northenden.

Around the Mersey in East Didsbury, the warning covered Millgate Lane and Parrs Wood Road, including