430 homes at risk of flooding in 'danger to life' warnings as river to peak at 7pm - these are streets most likely to be hit

Emergency refuge centres are gearing up to open tonight, to give urgent shelter to those encouraged to evacuate their homes due to flooding.

It comes as local councillors confirmed as many as 430 homes will be contacted and urged to leave for their safety as heavy rain continues to batter the region.

The race is on after councillors warned the River Mersey is expected to overflow by as early as 7pm.

Areas of both East and West Didsbury, in south Manchester, were placed under severe flood warnings earlier on Sunday, February 20.

READ MORE : “If asked to leave your home, we would strongly advise you do so": Evacuation underway in Didsbury amid 'danger to life' flood warning

This meant there is a severe risk to life, following the news that the River Mersey was reaching high levels and could even overflow by 7pm.

Evacuations started on Sunday afternoon in East Didsbury and the Palatine Road area of West Didsbury.

Hundreds of homeowners being told they will be welcomed at the Didsbury Islamic Centre, on Burton Road, as it acts as a refuge centre.

Should it reach maximum capacity, it was confirmed that the Armitage Sports Centre would provide hot drinks and shelter too.

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.

Liberal Democrat Opposition Leader at Manchester City Council confirmed that hundreds of homes are being knocked on and urged to evacuate.

He tweeted: "If you are in Didsbury please be aware that there is a serious possibility the river may overflow around 7pm tonight.

"430 properties at risk