Streets flooded and river bursts its banks across Greater Manchester as residents issued warning

Streets across Greater Manchester have been flooded as heavy rain has battered the region this weekend.

The River Mersey has burst its banks and a flood warning is in place for parts of south Manchester, urging residents to 'act now'.

In Bolton, some streets in Harwood have been left under water.

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A dramatic image shared by Bolton Council shows Stitch-Mi-Lane and Newby Road flooded, with a warning sent out to residents.

Flooding in Harwood, Bolton, as parts of Greater Manchester are hit by heavy rain (Bolton Council)

In a post on Facebook, a spokesperson for Bolton Council added: "Please avoid the area if possible, plan your journey and drive carefully."

It comes after the region reportedly recorded 31.6mm of rain in the 24 hours from Saturday morning, Oldham Weather said on Twitter - one of the top 10 wettest days in the last decade.

Council workers deal with flooding on Stitch-Mi Lane in Bolton. (Adam Vaughan)

Images also show the River Mersey has burst its banks near to Didsbury Golf Course and in Sale, behind TGI Fridays at Crossford Bridge.

Water levels have risen along the river, with high waters seen at Parrs Wood in south Manchester.

The banks of the river Mersey have broken near to Didsbury Golf Club on Ford Lane (ABNM Photography)

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for the River Mersey at Cheadle Wood and Ford Lane, however a spokesperson has told the Manchester Evening News as of 1pm they believe the river levels have peaked.

A spokesperson said: "River levels are rising on the River Mersey due to heavy rainfall.

High water levels in Parrs Wood (Greg Mape)

"Flooding is expected at land and property close to the River Mersey at Didsbury Golf Course and Cheadle Wood from 9am on February 6.

"Further rainfall is forecast throughout the morning and into the afternoon. River levels are expected to remain high throughout today.

The River Mersey has burst its banks in Sale (submitted)

"We will continue to monitor the forecast and re-issue this warning if necessary.

"Avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water."

Two flood alerts - meaning flooding is possible - have also been issued by the Environment Agency in Greater Manchester.

One of the alerts covers the Middle River Mersey catchment, including areas near Bramhall, Stockport, Sale, Altrincham and Urmston.

The second alert covers the Upper River Douglas, including Wigan, Adlington, Blackrod, Standish and Gathurst.

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