Flood alert issued for River Aire in Leeds after more heavy rainfall overnight

A flood alert has been issued for Leeds following heavy rainfall overnight.
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The Middle River Aire catchment, which runs through Leeds city centre, Hunslet and Castleford, is at risk of flooding today.

The Government's flood information service has warned drivers and pedestrians to avoid low-lying roads and footpaths near the river.

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Although further rainfall is not expected today, the flooding incident response team is monitoring the area.

A flood alert has been issued for the Middle River Aire catchment through LeedsA flood alert has been issued for the Middle River Aire catchment through Leeds
A flood alert has been issued for the Middle River Aire catchment through Leeds

The flood alert warns: "After falling for much of the day yesterday the River Aire through Leeds has been rising again through the night following further rainfall yesterday evening.

"However, no further significant rainfall is forecast and we do not expect to have to issue any flood warnings.

"Levels at Castleford are expected to peak again at around 8am on Tuesday and will gradually drop off throughout the day.

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"Our incident response staff are closely monitoring the forecast. Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and don’t put yourself at danger by driving through flood water."

It comes after Otley was left stranded by severe flooding on Monday after a river suddenly broke its banks following heavy rain over the weekend.

Multiple urgent flood warnings were issued after the River Wharfe burst leaving a trail of chaos.

Water levels hit peaks of more than 3.5m at 7am trapping shocked motorists in their vehicles.

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Flooding on the railway line caused delays to Northern Rail services, while traffic and buses were disrupted across Otley and Ilkley.

One resident said she was shocked as the river "rose so fast".

Local resident, Amelia Bradbourne said: "The river rose so fast, I didn't even hear any rain last night.

"Nothing surprises me with this year any more though."

Another disgruntled resident Amelia Websdale said: "Who needs national lockdown when you can just be marooned by a flood in your own house.

How is a flood alert and a flood warning different?

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There are three different levels of flood warning that are issued when bad weather strikes, including a flood alert, a flood warning, and a severe flood warning.

The three levels each indicate varying severity, with a flood alert being the lowest.

If a flood alert is issued, this indicates that an area should prepare, including making defences, preparing a bag that includes medicines and insurance documents, and staying up to date with the latest flood alerts.

When a flood warning is issued, this indicates a greater level of severity. In such situations, it is advised you turn off gas, water and electricity, and move your possession upstairs or to safety. Family members, pets and cars should also be moved to safety in these cases.

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The third flood warning indicates the highest level of severity. In this situation, it is advised that you call 999 if you are in immediate danger and follow advice from emergency services.

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