Storm Christoph: Video shows River Calder close to bursting its banks as flood alerts issued for Horbury, Wakefield and Stanley

The Environment Agency has issued a number of flood warnings for the district, after several days of heavy rain led to rising river levels.

Flood alerts have been issued for Horbury, Wakefield, Stanley and large areas of the Five Towns, while an alert has been upgraded to a warning at The Strands in Horbury.

In the warning, the agency said: "River levels across the Calder Catchment have risen as a result of persistent rainfall and are now approaching levels where we expect properties to flood.

"Consequently, flooding of property, roads and farmland is expected this morning (20/01/21).

"Areas most at risk are properties around The Strand, Horbury.

"Further rainfall is forecast through today and we expect river levels to continue to rise until around 16:30."

Water levels in Horbury have more than tripled in the last two days, and are now significantly above the flooding threshold.

Similarly high levels have been reported in Wakefield city centre and Stanley.

And a dramatic video captured near Castleford this morning shows high water levels further downstream, where it is estimated the river is within hours of bursting its banks.

The video, captured by Luke Andrew from Willow Grove Farm, shows high water levels at the River Calder in Methley.

Mr Andrew, who has suffered flooding in previous years, estimated that the river would burst its banks within an hour, and warned people to keep away from nearby footpaths.

He said: "We’re out this morning on the river Calder path monitoring the water levels, as you can see they’re extremely high.

"Be careful if you’re walking in this area, the water is expected to top the bank within the next hour."

Heavy rain is expected to continue until Thursday morning, with an amber rain alert issued for the Wakefield district.

People living in affected areas are urged to keep a bag packed with essential items including medications and insurance documents, move valuable items upstairs or to safety and plan to move family, pets and cars to safety.

For more information, or to subscribe for flood alerts, visit the Flood Warning Information Service.