River runs orange in Huddersfield
Environment Agency says situation doesn't pose threat to wildlife
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The River Holme looked as though it was downstream of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory today, when its water flowed a vivid orange.
The river's vibrant hue was actually caused by iron deposits however, which were washed out of a disused mine by the rising water levels the UK has seen recently.
Though the colouration has happened before it does not usually reach such an extent, with Tom Jackson, who works overlooking the river in Brockholes, saying he had "never seen the river that bad, it is quite orange."
Despite the river's rather alarming appearance, the Environment Agency said there was no cause for concern, with a spokesman telling the BBC it is aware of the situation but it was "natural and not harmful."
He added that no action was necessary and that the river would revert to its normal colour in due course, though until then the orange water could reach the River Calder and look "quite impressive for a few miles downstream."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments