One prominent councillor says: "Something needs to be done but we can't just jump in and start spending – we need to work with other agencies to try to resolve this problem."

It certainly does, but it is worrying to think progress is still at the "proposal" stage.

Thirteen proposals, to be exact. Which is ominous enough for anyone who is superstitious.

Of course the response needs to carefully-considered planned. But such a lack of momentum borders on foot-dragging.

It is also a gamble.

Global warming or not, the weather has become more unpredictable.

Not even the most seasoned forecaster would bet against more deluges like the ones last July that swamped 65 properties and 25 roads across the district. It will happen again. The only question is when.

And with every week that passes a severe weather event becomes more imminent.

Calderdale needs to progress its plans fast and its potential partner agencies must respond.

Because no matter what work it sets in motion it cannot stop the rain. The amount that falls from the sky is decided somewhere else altogether.

The time for planning and proposals should be long gone. We need solutions.

More protection for householders and security for businesses feeling the pinch with the current economic climate.

While this is not in place all we can do is keep one eye on the forecast. And say a little prayer.