A "major incident" has been declared by police after torrential rain left homes flooded and cars stranded on roads across Altrincham - while the Bridgewater Canal in Dunham Massey has breached for the first time in over half a century.
A number of flood warnings have been issued across the Altrincham area as the new year began with what residents said was the worst local flooding they have ever seen.
It has led Greater Manchester Police to declare a major incident and urged residents to travel only if it is necessary.
Here are some of the main developments from a dramatic New Year's Day so far:
- The Bridgewater Canal has been breached at Dunham Massey for the first time since 1971
- Numerous vehicles stranded on Shaftesbury Avenue at the junction with Aimson Road
- Severe flooding in numerous parts of Timperley, including the main junction connecting Woodlands Parkway and Wellington Road
- Other serious flooding reported on Brook Avenue, Brook Lane, Tannery Way, Brooklands Road and other roads, with local residents reporting flooded cellars, garages and gardens
- M56 westbound closed between junctions 6 and 7
The Environment Agency has issued several flood warnings in the Altrincham area, including Timperley Brook, the River Bollin in Little Bollington, and Baguley and Fairywell Brooks.
It particularly specified a risk to properties in the vicinity of Green Lane to Woodlands Road and Canal Road, including areas around King George Fifth Pool, Woodlands Parkway, Deansgate Lane, Brentwood Avenue and Newton Road.
It also warned properties on Woodbourne Road, Sylvan Avenue, Greenway Road, Wilford Avenue, Beccles Road, Dalebrook Road, Gawsworth Road, Aldfield Road, Stelfox Avenue and Maryport Drive.
Shortly before noon today, the Sinderland Brook level at Partington was 1.48 metres, with property flooding possible when it goes above 1.35m.
A total of 55 flood warnings - which means flooding is expected and nearby residents should 'act now' - are currently in place across the region.
Here's some drone footage of the affected areas:
One local resident, Peter Ball on Brook Avenue, said: "Lived on Brook Avenue for 40 years and have never seen this before. Back garden and garage flooded."
Another, Edwin Jones said: "Never seen anything like this in 50 years of living round Alty."
Here are some pictures of the affected areas:
Chief Superintendent Colette Rose, from Greater Manchester Police, said:
“Following events overnight a major incident has been declared.
"This is to ensure we can continue to keep people safe through a co-ordinated effort from our collective emergency services, supported by key partner agencies.
“Anyone affected should check the relevant detail being shared by their local council, the fire service and Transport for Greater Manchester to ensure they can get the support available, which include any road closures and information centres for those displaced.
"It is advised to travel if it is only necessary and to take care if out and about.
"Our officers with the fire service are in the key locations and can be spoken to if you need anything urgently, as we understand the distress those affected will be faced with as we begin 2025.
"It will be a continued team effort as we monitor how the weather and water levels progress throughout today."
