Several flood alerts are in force across Lancashire as Storm Bert sweeps across the county.

A red warning, meaning flooding is expected, has been issued for rivers in Accrington and Oswaldtwistle.

Areas most at risk include the River Hyndburn, Woodnook & Broad Oak Water, Antley Syke, Pleck, Hynburn, Tinker, Lottice and Whiteash Brooks in Accrington and Oswaldtwistle. Comprising Dunnyshop, Baxenden, Lower Fold, Peel Bank, Barnfield and Little Moor End.

People in these areas have been told to ‘act now’ as the Environment Agency (EA) expect heavy rain to cause flash floods.

A spokesperson for the EA said: “Weather conditions are expected to improve this afternoon and no further flooding is expected.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and clearing debris from weed screens.

“Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses.

“Stay away from flood water - it contains hidden dangers such as open manhole covers, sewage and chemicals.”

A red 'act now' warning has been issued for the River Darwen at Ewood and Waterfall in Blackburn.

Areas most at risk include properties adjacent to the River Darwen, including Ewood Park, Stancliffe Street, Griffin Mill and River Mill.

The warning applies to the River Irwell, in Bacup, Irwell Vale, Waterfoot and Rawtenstall.

Affected areas include:  Burnley Road around Bacup Leisure Hall to St James Square, along Market St, Henrietta St and Park Rd Industrial Estates. Also properties around the Library and St James Street to Lumb Scar, Beech Industrial Estate, Vale Street,  Irwell Vale, Aitken Street, Bowker Street, Chapel Terrace, Hardsough Fold, Milne Street, Parkinson Fold, properties on and adjacent to Burnley Road; south of Constable Lee Bridge. Bocholt Way and Bacup Road from Bury Road to Lench Road. Properties near Hareholme mill, Victoria Works and Holme Lane including parts of New Hall Hey Road and properties adjacent to the A681 Bacup Road.

The EA has also issued a yellow warning for the River Calder, meaning flooding is ‘possible’ adding that people in the surrounding areas should ‘be prepared’.

The flood alert area includes: Rivers Calder, Brun, Don and Pendlewater, from Laneshaw Bridge to the river Ribble including Trawden, Burnley, Nelson, Colne, Accrington and Whalley.

When a flood warning is issued, you should:

  • protect yourself and your loved ones
  • move your loved ones, pets and valuables to a safe place
  • move to higher ground or the upper floor of a building
  • turn off the gas, electricity and water in your home if it’s safe
  • put flood protection equipment in place
  • do as the emergency services tell you
  • help others if it’s safe to do so