RESIDENTS have been warned to prepare for flash floods as the summer’s heavy rain continues.
The Environment Agency is concerned the River Colne could burst its banks causing flooding in Slaithwaite and Marsden.
Staff from the agency’s flood incident team will hold an information day at Marsden Library on Friday from 10am to 4pm.
Representatives of Kirklees Council, the police, the fire service and Holme Valley Mountain Rescue will also be on hand to advise residents how to stay safe.
The Colne Valley has been hit by heavy rain this week, including an intense 10-minute downpour around 11am on Thursday. The Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which runs through the valley, is at a high level with water only inches lower than the towpath.
Environment Agency spokeswoman Claire Fyfe said: “Thankfully flash floods are rare in this country, but when they do happen they are extremely destructive, so being prepared can save lives.
“The fact that there has been little or no flash flooding in the Colne Valley in recent years is no guarantee that it won’t happen to communities one day.”
For more information visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk or call 0845 988 1188.
