Last updated at 13:56, Wednesday, 17 October 2012

WHITEHAVEN town centre is cut off to traffic this afternoon (Wednesday) following heavy rain - and St Begh's School has been forced to close.

Flash Flooding in Whitehaven

Police officers are attempting to stop traffic entering town at the Inkerman Terrace and the Pelican Garage ends following the downpour.

Flooding has occurred at Coach Road, West Strand, Roper Street, Lowther Street, the Market Place and the harbourside. Some town centre properties are also affected by flooding.

Firefighters with pumping equipment were called to Whitehaven’s Anchor Vaults pub in the Market Place. There was also flooding at St Bees and Millom’s A5093.

A decision was taken on Wednesday lunchtime to close St Begh's due to the severe weather.

The Environmental Agency has warned of flood alerts along the West Cumbria coast.

First published at 13:42, Wednesday, 17 October 2012
Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk