Two severe flood warnings remain in place on the Somerset Levels, whilst the country’s largest-ever pumping operation continues in order to reduce flood water on the Levels and Moors.
Across the rest of southern and central England river levels continue to fall, including along the Thames and the Severn, although properties could remain flooded for some time - including those in Windsor and Maidenhead, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Wokingham and West Berkshire. The weather outlook remains unsettled over the next few days and so the reduction in flood risk across the south will be slow.
Groundwater levels remain high across much of the south of England with ongoing flooding in parts of Greater London, Kent, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset. Local authorities, emergency services and other agencies will work with utility companies to respond to these incidents.
Strong winds and large waves are expected at times throughout the next five days. Where coastal defences are degraded at Chiswell in Dorset flooding is possible.
Flood warnings are still in place across southern and central England. As of 14.00hrs Sunday 23 February 2014 there are two severe flood warnings, 27 flood warnings and 115 flood alerts in place across England.
A warning that hidden dangers of floods contaminating private water supplies should not be ignored has been highlighted by a leading borehole company.
Homes, hospitals, factories, poultry and livestock farmers and food and drink processors are among many private supply users.
"Private water supplies need to be tested, particularly as flood waters begin to subside. A simple water test should be a priority after extreme weather conditions", said Brian Morgan, chief executive of Presteigne, Powys-based borehole installers WD & AD Morgan.
