Video: ‘Lifeboat Rescue’ & Fire Engines at River Dee Explained

Water rescue boats and the fire service are currently in attendance in Farndon after heavy rain and flooding caused the River Dee to burst its banks.

Earlier this afternoon Wrexham.com received reports that several fire engines were in attendance near the River Dee, Farndon – with reports that lifeboats were also being used on the river.

Aled told Wrexham.com: “Just came through Farndon and a lifeboat rescuing someone from either the Dee or the house by the old pub! Dee running really high.”

Thanks to Roger Hughes for the following video:

A statement released by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service earlier this afternoon states: “Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service are currently in Farndon where the River Dee has burst its banks. Fire service personnel are using water rescue boats to visit properties in the flood area and offer reassurance and assistance where needed.

“We are working closely with other agencies, including North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the Environment Agency, Natural Resource Wales, Cheshire West & Chester Council, Cheshire Constabulary and North Wales Police to manage flood risks and keep residents safe and well.”

At present a water rescue boat from Chester, water rescue boat from Warrington, fire engines from Chester, Warrington and Northwich are all in attendance at the scene.

The Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service statement adds: “People are advised to be prepared, check their flood risk and get early flood warnings by visiting the Environment Agency’s website or calling the 24-hour Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

“If anyone in the affected area feels that they are in danger or unwell, they should call 999.”

Flood warnings for the River Dee are currently in place, with details on the Gov.uk website stating: “Levels on the River Dee will begin to rise following rain overnight, further rain is expected from this evening and through the weekend. The situation will be monitored and updated as required.”

Information on the Environment Agency website adds: “The river level at Farndon is 8.72 metres.
This measurement was recorded at 13:00 on 04/12/2015. The typical river level range for this location is between 4.57 metres and 8.01 metres.”

A similar flood warning has also been put in place for the Lower Dee Valley between Llangollen and Trevalyn Meadows. Details regarding the flood risk state: “Some localised flooding problems may result from surface water. River levels are above normal but flooding of property is not expected at the moment.

“Flood defences are now in operation and the situation on site is being constantly monitored. There is a forecast of more rainfall tonight and into Saturday, this may cause river levels to rise tomorrow, but we will continue to keep an eye on the situation.”

Weather warnings across much of Wales and England are in place over the weekend, with heavy winds and torrential downpours expected to cause flooding and issues for motorists / residents until early on Sunday morning.

Pictured above – our view of the flooding by the River Dee in 2014