THE North-East and North Yorkshire is on flood alert this morning as torrential rain continues to fall across the region.

There are currently 17 flood warnings, and 37 flood alerts in place for Yorkshire and the North-East, mainly concentrated in North Yorkshire and County Durham. Further flood alerts and flood warnings may be issued, so communities are urged to be vigilant.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: "Rain has continued to fall across the region overnight, causing river levels to rise. We are expecting a band of rain to sit across the region from York to Durham for much of the day."

The Environment Agency is urging people to take care on their commute into work, as roads could be flooded. People can check the latest situation and sign up to free river and coastal flood warnings by visiting the Environment Agency website Although the rain has not been as intense as expected, rivers are likely to continue rising throughout the day, as rainwater runs off already saturated ground.

Emergency teams from the Environment Agency have been working over the weekend to monitor river levels, clear blockages from watercourses and operate pumping stations and washlands to try and manage river levels.

More than 2,000 properties across the region have received an alert or warning this weekend through our Floodline Warnings Direct service.

Phil Younge, Flood Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “We are expecting more rain throughout Monday, and are urging people to remain vigilant, and check their risk of flooding.

“Our teams have been out around the clock over the last few days to minimise the risks and prepare for flooding. We are continuing to deploy teams across the country to warn communities at risk.

“You can sign up for flood warnings and check the latest information on the Environment Agency’s website, where we also have information on how to prepare for flooding. Or call our Floodline on 0845 988 1188.”

People should check the Environment Agency website for the latest information: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood and sign up for free flood warnings on the Environment Agency’s website or by calling the Environment Agency Floodline on 0845 988 1188.