Braced for Storm Babet

FORECASTERS have issued a new weather warning as Storm Babet leaves its mark across the country.

The second named storm of the season arrived this week, with some parts of the country hit by strong winds and heavy rain.

While some parts of the UK have been hit with flooding, Greater Manchester has avoided the worst of the weather so far. But the Met Office has now issued an upgraded weather warning for the region, with heavy rain expected to arrive.

An amber warning for rain was due to come into force at midday today (October 20) and last until 6am on Saturday. The Met Office says areas covered by the warning should expect ‘persistent heavy rain’ with the ‘likelihood of some flooding and disruption.’

The amber warning covers Rochdale, Manchester and areas to the east of the city, including Tameside, Stockport and Oldham.

Homes and businesses covered in the amber warning are likely to be flooded and some communities could be cut off by flooded roads, the Met Office has warned.

Between 40 and 60mm of rain is likely, with the potential for between 80 and 120mm on higher ground. Delays and some cancellations to train and bus services are also likely with spray and flooding “probably leading to difficult driving conditions and some road closures”.

Other areas of Greater Manchester, including Salford, Trafford and parts of Bury, are covered by a less severe yellow warning for rain. It comes into force at 6pm today and runs until 6am on Saturday. Rochdale is currently forecast for heavy downpours from 9am tomorrow, continuing until around 4pm. Lighter periods of rain are also expected in the city on Friday evening and Saturday.