Storm Franklin: Homes in Yorkshire evacuated as heavy rain causes floods

The scene in Otley after the River Wharfe burst its banks

Homes have been evacuated and roads and bridges closed as heavy rain caused widespread flooding across Yorkshire.

Firefighters rescued people as flood waters engulfed a Knaresborough caravan site as Storm Franklin swept in.

There are more than 140 flood warning across the north of England and the Midlands, with two severe "danger to life" warnings in south Manchester.

Thousands of homes across the country are still without power following Storm Eunice on Thursday.

Flooding was reported along the Rivers Calder and Aire in West Yorkshire and the Nidd and Wharfe in North Yorkshire.

There were reports of high water levels along the River Don in South Yorkshire. In Rotherham, the central rail station was closed over fears the tracks could be submerged by flood water.

Several bridges over the River Aire were closed amid fears for people's safety after a large pontoon broke free from its moorings, police said.

Volunteers are helping with flood defences in the Calder Valley in West Yorkshire

Mike Ashworth posted a picture on Twitter of part of Otley in West Yorkshire under water, after the "raw power" of the River Wharfe flooded gardens.

"Some days it is almost too much water to imagine," he said.

The Environment Agency also warned of potential flooding in parts of the coast during high tides.

Helen Batt from the Environment Agency said flooding was expected in some areas after heavy rain fell on already saturated ground causing river levels to rise.

Water levels rose the River Don in South Yorkshire

She said the agency had opened an incident room and was activating its flood defences.

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"Obviously it takes a while for the water to work its way through the catchment, so people should remain vigilant," she said.

She added: "Most importantly is to stay out of floodwater.

"Just 30cm of flood water can float a car. There can be strong currents and obstructions under the water."