The Environment Agency is warning residents for an increased risk of flooding over the next two days

The Environment Agency is warning residents and emergency responders across the North West of England to prepare for an increased risk of flooding over the next two days.

Up to 100mm of rain is expected across the North West region in the next 24 hours. At 11am today, 11 flood alerts have already been issued for river and surface water flooding.

Significant disruption, including disruption to travel and flooding of properties and communities, is possible. Strong winds will increase the risk of flooding as wind-blown debris has the potential to block watercourses and drains.

The Environment Agency has mobilised teams across the country to check on flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels.

In addition to surface water flooding, it is likely that a significant number of river flood alerts (meaning that flooding is possible) and warnings (meaning that flooding is expected) will be issued over the next three days. The public are urged to check the Environment Agency website for the latest information: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.

Anyone concerned about potential flooding should sign up for free flood warnings on the Environment Agency’s website or by calling the Environment Agency Flood Line on 0845 988 1188.

For the latest information:

The latest flood warnings, updated every 15 minutes, can be found at:http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31618.aspx

The latest three day flood forecast can be found at: http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/3days/125305.aspx

For social media updates from the Environment Agency’s sign up at https://twitter.com/EnvAgencyNWand http://www.facebook.com/environmentagency.

• Click here to read a leaflet Health advice, General information about  mental health following floods.