RSPCA issues urgent warning to animal owners over possible flooding in South Yorkshire

The RSPCA says its water rescue teams are on standby, with the forecast for heavy rain leading to a number of flood alerts and an amber ‘danger to life’ warning for the region, where a ‘major incident’ has been declared.

The charity’s water rescue team coordinator Jason Finch said: “Today, Tuesday 19, January 19, the Environment Agency has issued 17 flood warnings and 121 flood alerts across England and the Met Office issued an amber weather warning for rain across the North, Midlands and East. A major incident has also been declared in South Yorkshire.

Sheffield weather LIVE: ‘Major incident’ declared and flooding fears over Storm Christoph

"Forecasters are warning that Storm Christoph could bring up to 200mm of rain in parts of the country. This amount of rainfall along with melting snow from previous cold weather could cause flooding so we’re urging pet owners, horse and livestock keepers, and farmers to prepare.

“Planning an escape route before flooding hits can make a big difference if you find yourself in an emergency situation. Flood water can rise very quickly and animals can be extremely vulnerable so it’s really important that we plan ahead for all eventualities.”

'I don't want to be called a hero': Sheffield woman speaks out after rescuing toddler from burning block of flats

The RSPCA’s top tips to prepare for flooding include:

Plan your escape route and keep contact details of people who can help you move your animals in an emergency

Ensure you can be contacted in an emergency - if you have horses or livestock in field attach your contact details to gates so you can be contacted

Make sure you have suitable carriers available for small animals and keep a supply of food in case of evacuation

Bring small animals inside and, if possible, upstairs, and move food, bedding etc somewhere dry

Put important documents in sealed bag along with photo of pet incase they get lost

Move livestock and horses to high ground and ensure you have emergency feed and water supplies

If you have to leave your animals behind, leave them inside an upstairs room with plenty of food and water. Leave notices on the outside doors to say there are animals inside and contact us or your local Flood Warden immediately to arrange rescue

Stay informed – call Floodline on 0845 988 1188 on visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.