New year floods test resilience of Manchester’s emergency services

A major incident was declared in parts of Manchester as heavy and persistent rain caused new year’s day floods and lead to hundreds of people being evacuated to safety. The incident was stood down later on 2 January after the response coordinated by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service saw the mobilisation of emergency services and resilience partners from across the region.

Rescue operations focused on a number of areas where the impacts of flooding were most severe, including Meadow Mill in Stockport where residents of a converted mill were evacuated by emergency services due to the flooding after a loss of power and water supply. Approximately 400 people were evacuated, with emergency services assisted by mountain rescue teams.

At the Britannia Hotel in Didsbury, 445 people were evacuated after flooding cut off power and water supplies. The flood water was hazardous due to contaminants and its speed of flow, so people were evacuated using powered inflatable boats.

GMFRS attended over 100 separate incidents, in many instances leading people to safety from their flood-stricken homes or vehicles, including many elderly or vulnerable residents. There were no casualties or reports of serious injuries.

“Over the past 36 hours, fire crews have worked tirelessly to keep people safe alongside Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service, Mountain Rescue, local councils and a range of partners. I’d like to thank everyone involved in the response for their hard work and dedication.”

Dave Russel, Chief Fire Officer, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson said that while it was no longer a major incident, the force would support councils councils and other agencies with localised responses in the areas still impacted.

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The British Red Cross published a new report shortly before Christmas, which urges action on flooding preparedness in the UK.