Greater Manchester 'past the worst' of flooding as major incident stood down

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they have made the decision following consultation with the Environment Agency and Met Office.

The major incident had been declared on Tuesday morning as Storm Christoph arrived in the area bringing with it heavy rain.

The severe weather has led to river levels rising, flooding, road closures and cancelled rail services in Wigan and across the region.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey, chariman of the GM Strategic Coordination Group for Storm Christoph, said: "The latest update we have received has suggested that we are past the worst point of potential flooding and therefore we have taken the decision, following consultation with the Environment Agency and Met Office, to step down the major incident that was declared on Tuesday morning.

"The severe flood warning for parts of Didsbury is no longer in place; however I want to be clear that this does not mean that we are withdrawing resources from the areas affected and others identified as potentially vulnerable.

"Residents will continue to see an increased presence from emergency services, local authorities and other partnership agencies as we support those still facing challenges caused by the flooding and a safe return to their homes.

"There remains severe flood warnings in the Little Bollington area of Trafford and we have already been in contact with those residents who may be affected to advise them on potential evacuations and preparations that can be made.

Chief Con Bailey urged the public to remain on alert for potential disruption caused by the flooding and "only travel where absolutely essential."

He said: "As a partnership, we will continue to monitor the situation and should there be a need to step up a major incident and resources again then we are prepared to do so. I would urge the public to remain on alert for potential disruption caused by the flooding and only travel where absolutely essential.

"We will continue to keep the public where possible and appropriate on the latest position with regards to this situation. More information for anyone with concerns about flooding in their area can be obtained by contacting your local authority who will be able to sign-post you to the most appropriate information and support.

He added: "I would also like to thank the emergency staff from the fire service and police, who worked alongside colleagues from the Local Authorities and support volunteers, for their personal commitment to protecting our communities."