THE heavens have opened and a rare amber weather warning has been issued as heavy rain begins to fall across Warrington.
Persistent rain has been forecast by the Met Office to begin today, Wednesday, and carry on through to Thursday.
Forecasters are warning that homes and businesses could be flooded, causing damage to some buildings, while fast-flowing or deep floodwater is possible, ‘causing a danger to life’.
Delays or cancellations to train and bus services are possible, while spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.
The Met Office has predicted the following for the North West: "An unsettled day with slow moving, heavy and persistent rain, which may lead to possible flooding and disruption.
"Heaviest rain to the south of the region. Turning breezy, especially around the coast. Feeling cooler. Maximum temperature 17 °C."
The Met Office is urging residents to check if your property could be at risk of flooding, and if so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance by gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here