Flood alert issued along the Sankey Canal in Warrington

The warning is in place today, Wednesday, in areas including Orford, Bewsey, Dallam, Longford, Great Sankey, Penketh, Callands, Sankey Bridges, Burtonwood and Whittle Hall.

Flooding is anticipated along the Sankey Canal due to heavy rainfall, with further wet weather expected throughout the rest of the day.

Areas highlighted in orange could be affected by flooding

Hawleys Lane in Dallam has been affected, with firefighters rescuing a motorist who had become trapped in flood waters under the railway bridge this morning.

Three fire engines and a boat rescue unit were called to the scene shortly after 5.30am.

On arrival, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service crews found that the driver had exited his vehicle and was stood on the roof after attempting to drive under the bridge.

The scene on Hawleys Lane today, Wednesday - picture by Wayne Callaghan

Flooding in Sankey Valley Park this morning - picture by Anna Forrest

A raft was used to rescue him before the car was moved to safety, with firefighters remaining on the scene for around half an hour.

High water levels have been recorded at the gauge at the Causey Bridge near Winwick.

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An Environment Agency spokesman said: “River levels have risen at the Causey Bridge river gauge as a result of persistent heavy rainfall.

“We believe there is a possibility of flooding for low-lying land and roads around Black, Barkers, Windle and Whittle Brooks and their tributaries.

“Further rainfall is forecast throughout the rest of the day.

Flooding on Liverpool Road overnight - picture by Sean Gunnery

Standing water on Alder Lane - picture by Tony Crawford

More flooding in Burtonwood - picture by Brian Yeoman

“Our incident response staff are closely monitoring weather forecasts and river levels, and will issue flood warnings if necessary.

“Please be aware of your surroundings and keep up to date with the current situation.”