Two severe flood warnings have been issued in south Manchester which could pose a 'danger to life'.
Both East and West Didsbury have been put under the highest warning level after the River Mersey burst it banks, with some residents being told to evacuate their homes.
460 homes are understood to be at risk.
The most severe of warnings, which were issued on Sunday afternoon (February 20), warn residents that they must take immediate action.
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According to the Government flooding service, both East and West Didsbury are at risk due to 'heavy and persistent rainfall resulting in rising river levels on the River Mersey'.
The warning is due to remain in place until Monday morning at the earliest, February 21.
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council said the 'process of evacuation was already underway'.
“We’re working closely with the police, fire service and the Environment Agency to protect residents living in the areas where we have severe flood warnings.
"The process of evacuation is already under way in order to protect as many people as possible given the forecast of more heavy rain throughout the day.
“If asked to leave your home we would strongly advise you do so. Flooding can be extremely dangerous which is why we are working diligently to get residents to safety."
Emergency rest centres have been set up at Didsbury Mosque where people who cannot stay with relatives or friends will be able to find shelter if evacuated. Armitage Centre in Fallowfield has been put on standby as a rest centre.
It comes as other flood warnings have been issued across Greater Manchester as heavy rain is forecast throughout the day.
The update confirms that those living in particularly hard-hit areas, that are facing the worst of the flooding, will be supported through evacuation plans.
Properties expected to be hit in West Didsbury and Barlow Moor include those around Princess Road, Riverside Avenue and Mersey Crescent.
Also risk to properties on Stanton Avenue, Palatine Road, Kenworthy Lane and Ford Lane.
In East Didsbury, potentially at risk areas include those around Millgate Lane and Parrs Wood Road including Tuscan Road to Broad Oak Lane.
Also at risk include properties around Kingsway including Wilmslow Road to Merston Drive, Millgate Farm and Old Bedians sports centre.
In Greater Manchester, rain is expected to become heavier throughout the day with a yellow weather warning in place for rain until 6pm.
Read the full hour by hour forecast for every borough here.
Storm Franklin has also been confirmed by the Met Office, just days after Storm Eunice brought devastation to parts of the country.
Manchester council said: "Residents who may be affected should be prepared and follow advice, should they be asked to leave their home.
"If it is necessary to evacuate homes, residents will be contacted and given instructions.
"We are working with colleagues in Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue and the Environment Agency to proactively evacuate homes before any flooding has taken place to ensure people’s safety.
"Anyone required to evacuate will be asked to make their own risk assessment as to what they do.
"For those that can’t stay with local family/friends, rest centres will be made available.
"Please stay in that single place until you’re told it is safe to return.
"In an emergency situation where a person or household is in immediate danger, please call 999."
What to do if you get a severe flood warning
A severe flood warning means there is danger to life: you must act now. Call 999 if you’re in immediate danger.
Follow advice from the emergency services and evacuate if you’re told to do so.
Make sure you have an emergency kit including a torch, spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, important numbers like your home insurance, water, food, first aid kit and any medicines and babycare items you may need.
Alert neighbours and offer help if it's safe to do so.
Avoid driving or walking through flood water: just 30cm (1 foot) of fast flowing water could move your car and even shallow moving water can knock you off your feet.
Keep your family and pets away from floodwater – it may contain heavy debris, sharp objects, open manhole covers, sewage and chemicals.
Wash your hands if you’ve been in contact with flood water which may contain toxic substances.
