English town evacuated after reservoir dam damaged
STOCKPORT, England (Reuters) - An English town was being evacuated on Thursday after the wall of a nearby reservoir was damaged with officials warning that subsequent flooding posed a risk to life.
Footage posted on social media showed water gushing from the Toddbrook Reservoir which sits above Whaley Bridge in Derbyshire, central England.
“Whaley Bridge is being evacuated due to the ongoing situation at Toddbrook Reservoir,” Derbyshire Police said, adding there were reports the wall of the reservoir had been damaged.
“Residents are asked to make alternative arrangements to stay with friends and family, ensure that any pets are taken with them and that all medication that may be needed for a number of days is taken with them.”
Britain’s Environment Agency issued a severe flood warning for the area, saying river levels in the River Goyt which runs through the town could rise rapidly.
It comes after heavy rain in the last couple of days led to flooding in areas across northern England.
Reporting Andrew Marshall and Phil Noble; writing by Michael Holden; editing by Guy Faulconbridge
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