New Year's Day flooding sparks major incident as 40 major flood warnings issued across UK
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Heavy rain brought travel chaos to the UK today as more than 1,000 people were evacuated from their homes because of flooding, as dozens of warnings remain in place. The first day of 2025 caused nightmares for many people in Greater Manchester as severe floods hit, as a major incident was declared. Heavy rain fell for several hours, causing many rivers to reach new records in some areas of Greater Manchester as the region was submerged in water.
Several roads were closed, with the M56 westbound closed between junctions six and seven. People were told not to travel on New Year's Day after the deluge of rain caused major flooding. Across the UK there are currently 40 flood warnings in place - meaning it is expected. There are also 83 flood alerts (flooding is possible). More than 1,300 people had to spend the first day of the year away from their homes, as well as hotel guests in south Manchester.
Chief Superintendent Colette Rose earlier said: "We are continuing to monitor the whole of Greater Manchester as we look to co-ordinate the emergency response involving a variety of services. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have been key to this to ensure we can keep those people and communities safe after the severe weather we have had.
"Thankfully, due to the efforts of all involved so far no one has been seriously injured or come to harm and would like to thank members of the public for their continued co-operation especially around the road closures in place and looking out for each other. Anyone still affected should continue to check the relevant details being shared by their local council, the fire service and Transport for Greater Manchester to ensure they can get the support available that may be needed.".
