A flood alert has been issued for areas near the River Swale in North Yorkshire after Storm Bert hit.

River levels are expected to rise as heavy rainfall and thawing snow combine to create excess water.

Flood alert issued for River Swale in wake of Storm Bert:

An alert is in place for the Upper River Swale, including areas around Richmond, Marske, Skelton, Brompton-on-Swale, and Catterick with flooding possible overnight and into Sunday (November 24).

Follow our live blog HERE for the latest on Storm Bert

It comes after Storm Bert battered parts of the region overnight with some areas under an amber snow warning from the Met Office. Almost all of the country is under a yellow warning for snow and ice.

The Environment Agency said: “Areas most at risk are near Arkle Beck, and the upper River Swale, with low lying land and roads expected to be most affected, particularly around Grinton Bridge and the B6270 at Low Whita.

“Further rainfall is forecast today and tomorrow. We are closely monitoring the situation and will issue flood warnings if necessary.

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“Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk, drive or cycle through flood water. Take care and consider activating your flood plan if you have one.”

When a flood alert is issued residents are told to be ready to follow a flood plan, have insurance documents and any medications ready, avoid walking, cycling or driving through any flood water, and move any livestock and farming equipment away from areas likely to flood.

It is less serious than a flood warning, which tells residents to ‘act now’, and that flooding is “expected”.