A main road in Bury is closed following torrential rain and widespread flooding on New Year’s Day.
Pilsworth Road, from its junction with the M66 and Moss Hall Road is closed after the carriageway has become submerged in water.
This follows reports of several parts of Greater Manchester receiving flood warnings and alerts with a ‘major incident’ being declared.
The M66 serves as a vital link between Manchester, Bury and Rossendale, with the closure set to create congestion elsewhere.
Following severe, heavy and persistent rainfall throughout yesterday and overnight on New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day, it has resulted in flooding in a number of affected areas across Greater Manchester, including Bolton, including parts of Westhoughton.
Also working with the Environment Agency and Highways England, officers and specialist resources, including mountain rescue, have been deployed to assist with transport and travel and where needed help with the response by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service as reports continue around damage, risk to life and stranded vehicles.
The force said the worst affected areas were Bolton, Didsbury, Harpurhey, Stalybridge, Stockport and Wigan.
Jo Platt, MP for Leigh and Atherton, said: “I’m aware that there has been flooding in Leigh and Atherton overnight. I’m in contact with relevant agencies this morning to make sure that those affected are provided with every possible support.”