Press release

Hebden Bridge flood warning siren test

A flood warning siren will be sounded in Hebden Bridge as a test between 2 and 3pm this Thursday 22 April.

The grey siren on the right is the new siren which will be tested

The site of the flood warning siren at Hebden Bridge

The test is taking place due to the replacement of the siren at the Vale Centre site on Stubbing Holme Road. The siren test will last for two minutes.

Christian Merriman, Environment Agency flood risk advisor for Calderdale said:

The new siren is being moved approximately 10 metres from its existing location because of work on a wall as part of the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme. The siren is being tested to ensure it is working effectively in its new position.

Residents and businesses do not need to take any action when the sirens sound during the testing but the siren should be treated seriously if sounded at any other time.

With an audibility level similar to that used by emergency vehicles, the Environment Agency uses the sirens to warn people of possible imminent flooding from the River Calder that runs through the town.

The sirens help the community be as prepared as possible for any risk of flooding.

Staff from the Environment Agency and BAM Nuttall will be in the area to provide advice and answer questions on Thursday. Residents and business owners can ask any questions by emailing HebdenBridgeFAS@environment-agency.gov.uk.

To find out if your property is at risk of flooding, sign up to flood warnings and find out how to put together a flood plan for your home or business, call  Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or visit www.gov.uk/flood.

For the latest information on current flood warnings Hebden Bridge residents can follow @EnvAgencyYNE on Twitter.

For more about the Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme please visit Eye On Calderdale - Hebden Bridge Flood Alleviation Scheme.

Published 20 April 2021