A flood alert has been issued for Sefton as heavy rain hits Merseyside. Sefton Council issued a flood alert for the River Alt on Thursday, August 20, warning of potential flooding between Maghull and Formby. The council urged people to stay safe and avoid low-lying footpaths or roads near the river wherever possible.
Flood risks and responsibilities
Flood risk across Sefton can be caused by overflowing rivers or streams, coastal inundation, blocked drains, high groundwater or pumping station failures. Even if you are not located near a body of water, surface water flooding (caused by extreme rainfall) can occur in any location at any time of year, the council said.
On its website it added: "It is important to be aware of your risks and responsibilities so you can protect yourself and your property. As a property owner, there is a personal responsibility to protect your property from flooding. Sefton Council does not have a legal obligation to protect private property from flood events and this includes the supply of sandbags.
"We recommend property owners undertake measures to protect their properties from flooding through resistance and resilience measures."
Weather forecast
The warning comes after Merseyside was hit with heavy rain following a dry spell today. The Met Office forecast for Thursday indicated a wet start with showery rain, sometimes heavy with thunder and hail, moving southwards across the region. This gradually clearing to leave a brighter afternoon, with just a few lighter showers. Feeling cool in the northerly breeze. Maximum temperature 18 °C.
Tonight: Showers fading during the evening, then becoming largely dry overnight with clear spells and light winds. A notably chillier night than of late. Minimum temperature 5 °C.
Friday: Mostly dry to begin Friday with a good number of sunny spells. A few showers developing during the day, but these lighter and more isolated than those on Thursday. Maximum temperature 19 °C.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday: Becoming more settled into the outlook period with an increasing number of sunny spells. Small chance of a shower over the Cumbrian Fells on Sunday. Temperatures below average for August.
