Flood alert issued for Yorkshire as water firm puts out urgent advice

-> Powergrid in Yorkshire preparing for power cuts due to thunderstormsFlood alert issued

A flood alert is now in force for the River Calder Upper catchment area with flooding possible from Todmorden to Brighouse.

A spokesperson said: "This flood alert has been issued in response to the forecast for heavy showers and thunderstorms that could affect areas throughout South and West Yorkshire from around 5pm Thursday.

"It is not possible to predict the precise location of these thunderstorms, but where they occur there’s a risk of localised surface water flooding and flooding from smaller rivers affecting roads, homes and businesses.

"This means that we are taking the precautionary measure of issuing flood alerts for faster responding rivers and surrounding communities.

"Our staff are monitoring the situation and our field teams are working with partners to ensure that defences are clear of obstructions.

"Given the speed at which levels in the faster responding rivers may rise, we may not have time to issue all flood warnings before the onset of any flooding. "Please stay aware of your surroundings and do not put yourself at risk. Be prepared to act on your flood plan."

-> Thunder, rain and hail forecast for Yorkshire as yellow weather warning issued Yorkshire Water preparing for flash floods

Yorkshire Water is readying itself for the possibility of flash floods in the region with the dry weather set to end in dramatic fashion.

After a month which has seen records tumble, forecasters are predicting rain and thunderstorms across the county on Thursday, Friday and at the weekend./

The firm is prepared and has jet vans ready to respond to reports of sewer flooding. If required, the jetters will clear blocked drains from water excess water and debris.

Yorkshire Water Flood Engagement Manager, Gary Collins, said: “It may be hard to hard to imagine given the extremely hot and dry weather we have had but it is predicted that a lot of intense, heavy rain will hit the region tonight and tomorrow morning.

“Such a huge amount of rain in such a short space of time can overwhelm drainage systems and cause flooding.”

To prepare for flooding, Yorkshire Water is recommending customers to:

1. Check if your home is at risk of flooding: You can view flood risk maps on the Environment Agency's website. Just type in your postcode and you'll see which areas are at risk of flooding.

2. Get the latest flood warnings: Sign up to receive free flood alerts by email or SMS from the Environment Agency (EA). Alternatively, you can search for the latest flood warnings directly on their website or call the EA Floodline on 0845 988 1188.

3. Check your home insurance: It's worth checking that your home and contents are insured against flooding. Contact your landlord if you're renting.

4. Prepare a kit of essential items : Home insurance documents

- Torch and batteries

- Warm, waterproof clothing and blankets

- First aid kit and medication

- Bottled water and food

- Items for babies / children (e.g. nappies)

5. Protect your valuables: Any valuable possessions should be moved to safety before a flood. Things like electrical equipment and furniture can be moved to a higher floor or temporary storage such as a friend’s house that isn't at risk.

-> Warning as potentially deadly thunder fever set to hit Yorkshire this week"If you suspect that the flooding is as a result of rising groundwater, or surface water run-off, please contact your local council.

If the inside of your property is flooding and you suspect it is being caused by a blocked or overloaded sewer, please at yorkshirewater.com/contactus

If sewer flooding is occurring outside of your property then the excess water is likely to drain away as the weather improves. If you're concerned, please contact us.

Please see the Yorkshire Water flooding emergency advice page for more information about what to do.

Finally, please avoid contact with flood water if at all possible.

"Although the health risks associated to this are small, if you are exposed to flood water then make sure you wash your hands, and any other area of your body exposed to it, as soon as possible with, preferably, hot water and soap. If water is not available, then use sanitising gel or wipes.

"With regards to drinking water quality, we can re-assure that it has not been affected by the floods and is perfectly safe to drink as normal."