STORM Christoph has taken its toll on roads around Crewe today with several reports of flooding.

Highways officials have warned motorists to stay away from Smithy Lane next to Leighton Hospital, which is flooded after several days of heavy rainfall.

Wistaston Green Road near to the new housing development Kingfisher Reach is also affected, while out beyond the town Maw Green Lane is closed to traffic.

Parts of Wistaston were hit, including Joey the Swan, after Wistaston Brook broke its banks.

The Met Office has a yellow weather warning in place for Cheshire today and tomorrow (Thursday) and has warned of flood damage to properties, delays to public transport and potential power cuts.

There are a number of flood warnings in place, including for the River Weaver in mid Cheshire and Nantwich.

Highways engineers closed off Smithy Lane from Leighton Hospital Entrance One up to the Bradfield Road/Minshull New Road roundabout. That closure looks set to remain in force until tomorrow as the road is under a couple of feet of water in stretches after waters from flooded fields rose onto the thoroughfare.

Access at the hospital's main entrance has been maintained, but traffic can only access the medical site from Middlewich Road.

Cheshire Highways are warning motorists to avoid the area where possible.

Cheshire Police have warned motorists venturing out to allow extra time for journeys and say contingency plans have been made to evacuate residents affected by floods.

They are also reminding people not to walk or drive through any flood water as it can often be deeper than it looks and may be fast-moving with hidden hazards, such as raised manhole covers.

Superintendent Simon Parsonage said: "With heavy rain forecast, road closures are a possibility and anyone making an essential journey should allow extra time in case of any issues.

"We will continue to monitor the situation closely over the next 48 hours."

Anyone affected by highways emergency issues should call 0300 123 5020.

If you are concerned about potential flooding then see the Environment Agency's website or Twitter account at @EnvAgencyNW and call the Flood Line on 0345 988 1188.