Drivers trapped in floodwater after River Wharfe burst its banks in Otley

A Leeds market town has been left stranded by severe flooding after a river suddenly broke its banks this morning (Mon) following heavy rain over the weekend.

Multiple urgent flood warnings have been issued after the River Wharfe burst in Otley, near Leeds, leaving a trail of chaos.

Residents who live near the river have been warned to take “immediate action” by the government’s flooding information service and to activate flood protection measures, including sandbagging their front doors.

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Water levels hit peaks of more than 3.5m at 7am trapping shocked motorists in their vehicles.

Flooding in Otley on Monday, November 2. Photo taken by resident Mike Ashworth @Mikeashworth12.Flooding in Otley on Monday, November 2. Photo taken by resident Mike Ashworth @Mikeashworth12.
Flooding in Otley on Monday, November 2. Photo taken by resident Mike Ashworth @Mikeashworth12.

North Yorkshire Police have warned against driving in the area and have been freeing drivers trapped by floodwater on the A684 near Wensley and at Morton-on-Swale.

There are currently six flood alerts in place for the Lower River Calder catchment, Lower River Nidd, Lower River Wharfe, Middle River Aire catchment, Upper River Calder catchment and Upper River Nidd.

Due to heavy rain, the railway between Skipton and Carlisle has also been blocked and services running through the area have been cancelled.

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The Government's warning said: “This flood warning has been issued as river levels are forecast to rise as a result of heavy rainfall on Sunday.

“Consequently, flooding of property, roads and land in Ilkley is expected today Monday 2nd November.

“The area at risk is Denton Road, Ilkley. The River Wharfe at Ilkley is currently expected to peak at around 3.5m at 7am today, Monday.

“Please activate any property flood protection products you may have, such as flood barriers and air brick covers, and stay away from fast moving water.

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“Our incident response staff are closely monitoring the forecast. This message will be updated in 8 hours or as the situation changes.”

One resident said she was shocked as the river "rose so fast".

Local resident, Amelia Bradbourne said: "The river rose so fast, I didn't even hear any rain last night.

"Nothing surprises me with this year any more though."

Another disgruntled resident Amelia Websdale said: "Who needs national lockdown when you can just be marooned by a flood in your own house."

While Simon Palmer said he had seen a canoe go past.

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He said: "Looks like it’s still rising. Just seen someone’s canoe go past. My boat still tethered. Sheep stood on small areas of high ground.

"Worried about houses further down river at Otley park."

Current road closures in place due to heavy rainfall on Sunday night resulting in flooding:

A65 Road from Burley Roundabout to Wheatley Lane in Ilkley

Denton Road, Ilkley

Harrop Lane in Wilsden

Otley Road in East Morton