Flood alerts have been issued for parts of East Lancashire as heavy rain from Storm Babet batters the UK.

The Environment Agency has issued an alert for the Upper River Irwell catchment.

People in Haslingden, Rawtenstall, and Ramsbottom have been told to prepare for flooding, as are residents in Turton, Edgworth, Egerton and Belmont.

Other areas which may be affected include Bacup and Whitworth, with the alert also stretching to Clowbridge Reservoir.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “Flooding is possible in this area.

“Monitor local water levels and weather conditions. Avoid using low-lying footpaths or entering areas prone to flooding. Start acting on your food plan if you have one.

READ MORE: Storm Babet: Yellow weather warning issued for Blackburn

“The Environment Agency Flood Warning System has issued this message based on rising river or tidal levels.”

Parts of East Lancashire have been issued with a yellow weather warning for heavy rain which is set to last until tomorrow morning (October 21).

The Met Office has warned that flooding of homes and businesses is likely and that spray and flooding on roads will make driving conditions difficult.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Further heavy rain will move north and west across England and Wales during Friday, easing overnight. 25-30mm of rain is expected to fall quite widely, though some higher ground in northern England could see 60-80mm.

“Strong easterly winds may exacerbate the impacts brought about by the heavy rain across northern England, where gusts of 60mph are possible.”

An amber warning is in place across the Pennines, while a red warning is in place in Scotland where up to 10 inches of rain could fall in a short period.

River levels were steady as of 2.30pm, but at Ramsbottom Weir they had begun rising as the deluge continues.