Flood alerts issued across Wyre as wet weather moves in and river levels rise
Flood alerts have been issued across parts of the Wyre area as a shift to wetter and more unsettled weather brings rising river levels.
The Environment Agency has warned that flooding is possible from around 2pm today, particularly affecting low-lying land and roads near rivers.
One alert covers the Lower River Wyre, including the River Wyre, River Cocker and Pilling Water.
Areas affected stretch from Catterall to Fleetwood, including St Michaels, Great Eccleston and Preesall.
A second alert has been issued for the Upper River Wyre, Brock, covering the Rivers Wyre, Calder and Brock from Abbeystead to Catterall, including Scorton, Garstang, Bilsborrow, Ainspool and Churchtown.
The Environment Agency said it is closely monitoring the situation and operating flood defences where necessary as river levels continue to rise.
Residents are being urged to take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water.
The alerts come as a spell of warm spring sunshine gives way to cooler, wetter conditions across the North West.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Steve Willington said: “While the early part of the period brings warm sunshine for many, it’s not unusual to see colder spells and even some wintry showers in March.”
Rain is expected to spread into the region, with temperatures falling steadily through the week.
Daytime highs are forecast to drop to around 7C by Thursday, while a north-westerly airflow will bring frequent showers from midweek.
Forecasters say the unsettled conditions could lead to further localised flooding in vulnerable areas.