Fire chief's safety warning as more wet and windy weather set to hit Wigan

People are encouraged to take extra care when driving, leave extra time for essential journeys and drive according to the road conditions.

Heavy rainfall and high winds are being forecast, with the Met Office issuing a yellow weather warning for rain to run from midnight until 2pm on Saturday for Greater Manchester. A further warning for rain is in place from 6pm on Sunday until 6pm on Monday.

Paul Duggan, head of prevention for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We’ve already had a wet and windy week in Greater Manchester and there is more to come this weekend. This has seen us called to incidents where properties have flooded and we are asking the public to please help us reduce the number of incidents we attend by following the advice and only calling 999 in an emergency. This will ensure our crews are available to attend the incidents where they are needed most.

“When out on the road this means taking your time, making sure you are driving to the conditions and not driving into flood water because you never know how deep it will be.”

Any flooding concerns should be reported to Wigan Council. Alternatively call Floodline on 0845 988 1188.

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