RESIDENTS are being warned there could flood alerts as Storm Bronagh sweeps across the country. 

Forecasters are predicting heavy rain and very strong winds between 6pm tonight, Thursday, and 9am tomorrow, Friday. 

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “We are expecting heavy and persistent rain to hit the north west from Thursday afternoon and into Friday, with forecasts suggesting that parts of Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside and Cheshire being the worst affected areas.

“There is a possibility that the Environment Agency will need to issue some Flood Alerts and some Flood Warnings as a result of Storm Bronagh.

“Environment Agency teams are out on the ground across the region taking action to reduce the impact of flooding and support those communities affected." 

After yesterday’s strong winds during Storm Ali Environment Agency staff are now clearing channels of debris and will be clearing grids across the area.

READ: Storm names for this Winter announced by the Met Office

A spokesman added: "We are working closely with partners including councils and the police to share information and warn local communities ahead of tonight’s rain.

“We always advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through flood water - just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car."

You can check your flood risk and keep up to date with the latest situation by clicking here.

Or you can call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.