FLOOD warnings and alerts have been issued by the Environment Agency for the River Calder as heavy rainfall and rapid snow melt from Storm Bert is causing problems in West Yorkshire.

The Environment Agency said river levels have risen rapidly as a result of persistent heavy rainfall and rapid snow melt due to Storm Bert. Consequently, flooding of property is likely.

Forecasts for the rainfall to continue through much of today.

A number of flood warnings have been issued at a number of locations along the River Calder including Hebden Bridge – Mytholm and Hebble End, Central Todmorden, Todmordenn from the cricket ground to the railway, Todmorden – Harley Wood and Todmorden – Patmos Burnley Road.

Incident response staff are monitoring the situation closely and people are warned to avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded.

Consider taking appropriate steps to prepare for possible flooding, such as moving things upstairs and getting flood protection equipment ready to put in place.

A flood alert has also been issued for the River Spen and Batley Beck catchments.

The flood alert area includes the River Spen, Blacup Beck, Lands Beck and Canker Dyke in Cleckheaton and Liversedge, Batley Beck from Birstall to Dewsbury and Chickenley Beck.

Widespread heavy rain and snow over higher ground is expected in West Yorkshire from early morning Saturday and into the evening Sunday.

River levels are expected to rise as a result and flooding is possible.

Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water.

Areas most at risk are low lying land and roads near rivers.

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