Pendle News Room

And with heavy rain forecast for Pendle this week and over the coming weekend, Pendle Council is reminding local residents to take care and be prepared.

David Walker, Environmental Services Manager warned:

“The ground is saturated following two weekends of storms and more heavy rain is on the way.

“Pendle Council doesn’t have to provide sandbags but we try to help where possible during flooding emergencies. 

“We have a very limited supply of sandbags that we can give out and we’ve had a huge demand for them.

“We do not want to run the risk of running out iif we get more flooding in Pendle! 

“If you live in a flood risk area, it's a good idea to buy sandbags from your local DIY store and keep them in a shed or garage in case of an emergency,” he said.

Advice on how to be prepared and stay safe including information on how to get sandbags is on Pendle Council’s website www.pendle.gov.uk/floods 

When Storm Ciara brought flooding to Pendle on Sunday 9 February teams from Pendle Council were out helping people in Earby and Barrowford who were affected and those at risk in other parts of Pendle.

David Walker said:

“We worked all day from the first warnings being issued just after 6am until around 6.30pm in the evening to help people in Pendle affected by Storm Ciara.

Pendle Council used flood defences which are laid down with the pockets facing in the same direction as the expected flow of water. The barriers are weighted down so they don’t wash away and as the water flows across them the water is caught in the pockets inflating the barrier and reducing the flow of water into properties and into the street.

The design of them makes it far quicker and easier to deploy than if we had to create a wall of sandbags.

“During Storm Ciara we also helped to clear sodden carpets, flooring and fridges and helped to get de-humidifiers to help people dry out their homes,” explained David.

And during Storm Dennis this weekend, teams were out putting flood defences in place and installing a temporary pump in Earby to prevent further flooding.

David added:   “Don’t forget that if flood water comes into your house do not turn lights or any electric items on until they have been checked for safety by an electrician.”

There is advice online on this www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/safety-around-the-home/flooding-advice/

Councillor Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council said:  “I’d like to thank the crews, volunteers, local residents and councillors who worked hard over two weekends in storm conditions.