Drivers stranded by flash floods

Communities are being warned to prepare for the risk of flash flooding in awareness campaigns launched as more heavy rain is forecast.
Cars submerged in water at Marus Bridge at tea time on WednesdayCars submerged in water at Marus Bridge at tea time on Wednesday
Cars submerged in water at Marus Bridge at tea time on Wednesday

Councils across England and Wales are highlighting the danger to residents and businesses of flash floods, which can see local areas swamped in minutes after deluges.

Last night Wigan was hit by some of the heaviest downpours of rain, bringing chaos to roads and gardens across the borough.

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Drivers leaving the M6 at Marus Bridge found themselves marooned in deep water as the sudden downpour brought everything to a standstill.

Several house on Atholl Grove were also flooded when a brook which runs behind the street overflowed.

Firefighters were called to the street at around 7.30pm last night, Wednesday, when a heavy downpour overwhelmed the brook and the sewage system.

At least two houses were badly affected with several more experiencing flooding in garages.

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Wigan watch manager Jimmy Clitheroe said: “We were there for around two hours pumping out water from the houses which is probably around 1,000 litres of water.

“There was a great community spirit though and everyone was pitching in to help. We left the scene at around 9.30pm when the water had receded and we had pumped the water from the affected areas.”

Both Marus Bridge Primary School and Winstanley College have been affected by flooding and will be closed today, Thursday. Marus Bridge hopes to reopen on Friday but Winstanley has said it will remain closed until Monday.

•Have you been affected by flooding this week? Send your pictures to [email protected].