New Year Floods Devastate North-West England
In early January this year, North-West England faced flooding due to unprecedented rainfall, leading to significant disruptions and flood damage across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire.
The Environment Agency reported that at least 350 properties were flooded, with more than 21,000 properties protected with flood defence equipment since New Year's Eve.
A major incident was declared on New Year's Day as large parts of the North-West were deluged by torrential rain, including Stockport, Bolton, Didsbury, Harpurhey, Stalybridge, and Wigan – with around 400 residents evacuated from Meadow Mill in Stockport as floodwaters rose.
Additionally, large parts of Lancashire and Cheshire experienced severe impacts, with homes around the Halsall Lane area of Ormskirk in West Lancashire particularly hard-hit, trapping some in their homes. Greater Manchester alone saw almost 1,000 residents evacuated from their flooded homes due to the inundation.
A Once-in-a-Hundred-Year Weather Event?
This marks the region's third "once-in-a-hundred-year weather event" in just five years, underscoring the increasing severity of flooding incidents. Andy Brown of the Environment Agency noted, "We are seeing more intense and more frequent rainfall, and the flood risk is increasing. The latest estimates show that in parts of the North-West, climate change might result in approximately a 20-30% increase in rainfall, so they will be substantial changes in the long-term for us."
The financial impact of flooding can be devastating. The average UK flood insurance claim often reaches tens of thousands, around £30,000. This highlights the importance of comprehensive building insurance for residential and commercial properties, with weather predictions stressing the need for flood cover.
The Importance of Checking Insurance Policies
Flood insurance is usually included in buildings insurance, covering structural damage. However, as flooding increases, some insurers have removed it from standard policies, so ensure clients check! Property owners and tenants should also remember that contents insurance protects personal belongings from flood damage.
Is Your Property Protected Against Flood Damage?
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, now is the time to review your insurance coverage and flood protection measures.
If your home or business has been affected by flooding, get in touch with us via our 24/7 helpline by calling 01254 665 333 today to find out how we can help.