Storm Debi: Hundreds of Britons were evacuated amid fears a 200ft crane could collapse amid 70mph winds and flood warnings
HUNDREDS of Brits were evacuated from their homes amid fears a 200ft crane could collapse amid 70mph winds and flood warnings caused by Storm Debi.
Residents have been asked to leave waterfront homes in Leeds city center after concerns were raised about the safety of a crane being used to build luxury high-rise apartments.
6
6
6
Trains arriving at Leeds station were canceled as a precautionary measure amid fears the crane could fall onto the west end of Leeds station.
Locals were told the crane had “become unsafe” and was “at risk of falling”.
Emergency services, including fire and police, were called to Riverside Way just after 1.30pm today.
Residents of Whitehall Waterfront, where there are 194 apartments, were among those told to leave.
A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: “Police are at the scene following a report of an industrial accident involving a crane on Riverside Way in Leeds.”
“It has been confirmed that there is no one on the crane.
“Pedestrian access to the area has been restricted and road closures have been imposed.
“A number of buildings in the area are also being evacuated as a precaution.
“These closures are expected to continue for some time and the public is advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.”
“This is an ongoing incident and further updates will be provided in due course.”
A spokesman for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are witnessing an industrial accident involving a crane on Riverside Way in Leeds.”
“The area has been cleared of people – access is restricted and there are road closures.”
“We have two crews from Leeds Fire Brigade on site.”
Several trains have been cancelled, including London trains, and disruption is expected for the rest of the day.
CrossCountry, Northern and TransPennine services are also affected.
Train operator LNER posted online: “The routes have reopened after emergency services dealt with a previous incident at Leeds station.”
“Trains at this station may continue to be canceled or have severe delays of up to 60 minutes.
“Significant disruption is expected until the end of the day.”
Storm Debi has brought gusts of more than 70mph to parts of the UK.
The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, heavy rain and severe gales in London and southern England today.
6
6
6