North West Leicestershire residents have been urged to make sure they are flood-ready with heavy rain forecast this week.

An amber warning says heavy rain between Tuesday and lunchtime on Thursday may lead to flooding and disruption to travel in places as a result of Storm Christoph

Councils, emergency services and other agencies across the area are advising people to sign up for flood alerts, prepare their homes if they live in flood areas and check before they travel.

Local councils will have crews available during the day and night to keep the roads moving and deal with any incidents of localised flooding, if required.

Councillor Trevor Pendleton, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "We will constantly monitor the weather situation and resources will be available if needed.

"However, we would urge motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to take extra care.

"Please don't attempt to drive, cycle or walk through floods – it is incredibly dangerous, the water can be deeper than it looks."

Matt Cane, Area Manager Operational Response at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We strongly advise members of the public to never attempt to drive through flood water.

"If you cannot see the road surface beneath the water, it is too deep to drive through.

"Just six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car, or stall it when water is sucked into the engine and exhaust.

"Two feet of flowing water can sweep away most vehicles, including large 4x4s.

"If you come across a flooded road, find an alternative route and ensure you pay attention to any 'Road Closed' signs. If there is a risk to life or you are physically trapped by flood water, call us on 999 – we are still here to help."

Chief Constable, Simon Cole, added: "As we are expecting heavy rain over the next week, I really want to stress how important it is to be prepared. The right kit could save your life, or your property, so please check out the website if you are in a flood area. We would like to remind drivers to stay safe and to not take any risks with floods as this is how most drivers suddenly find they are stuck in a perilous situation waiting for emergency services to save them."

You can prepare by:

• Signing up to receive warnings
• Putting important documents out of flood risk
• Checking your insurance covers you for flooding
• Making a flood plan and prepare a flood kit
• Finding out where you can get sandbags
• Identifying who can help you/who you can help
• Identifying what you would need to take with you if you had to leave your home
• Residents can find out more on the LLR Prepared website.