There may be surface water flooding in parts of Preston during the next 48 hours

Preston is being told to brace for heavy rain and the threat of flooding in areas to the south of the city.

The Met Office has issued an amber warning of persistent and heavy rainfall from Saturday evening and throughout Sunday, upgrading the initial warning it gave on Thursday.

Alongside the rain warnings the Environment Agency has issued flood alerts for three areas along rivers in Preston and the surrounding area.

Update: River Ribble running high and Met Office rain warning issued until Tuesday evening

A stretch of the River Ribble from Samlesbury to Walton-le-Dale could see some flooding, along with parts of Longton on the A59 due to the Lower River Douglas being in flood.

Lostock Hall and Bamber Bridge also see flood alerts due to rising water levels on the River Yarrow and Lostock.

The Met Office say: “A strong, moist west to southwesterly flow is expected to develop during Saturday and last through most of Sunday before clearing during the evening. This flow is expected to bring a period of heavy and persistent rain, with 50-100 mm of rain falling in many areas. However, as much as 200 to 250 mm may fall across some of the most exposed high ground. This rainfall, falling on to already saturated ground, is likely to lead to further flooding.

“There is some uncertainty in the exact locations of heaviest rainfall, as well as peak amounts; this will depend on how far north the frontal system moves and how long it remains aligned across any one area. For this reason, the warning will be kept under review over the weekend.”

Councillor John Swindells, deputy leader of Preston City Council, has revealed Fulwood Leisure Centre and West View Leisure Centre are both on standby to act as rest centres if flooding occurs.

You can check river levels near you for:

Lostock near Littlewood Bridge

Ribble at Walton le Dale

Ribble at Samlesbury