Weather warnings: Emergency flash flood alerts issued - is your area on the danger list?
EMERGENCY flash flood warnings were issued today as torrential rains and rising waters threatened communities across the UK.
Floods have caused chaos on the roads
The Environment Agency sent out 33 flood alerts and four flood warnings, indicating flooding is expected and immediate action is required.
Last night and early today towns and villages all over the country struggled to cope with torrential downpours which overwhelmed drainage systems leaving roads awash.
In Amersham, Bucks, cars struggled to drive through the main street after flash floods. And further north drivers in Wigan found themselves marooned as a sudden downpour brought roads to a standstill.
The weather is getting more volatile
Flash floods can bring devastation to communities within a matter of minutes
The regions facing flood warnings so far are:
East Midlands
East of England
London and South East England
South West England
West Midlands
Yorkshire and Humber
The Met Office also issued warnings of severe weather to the City of London for today and tomorrow.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has said that homeowners and businesses at risk of flash floods should regularly check weather forecasts and know how to turn off gas, electricity and water.
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The LGA has also said that people should have a plan for moving important items upstairs quickly in case there is a disastrous flood.
Town halls want the Government to bring in anti-flood measures for new homes in building regulations, including raised electrical sockets, fuse boxes and wiring above floor level.
Earlier this year the Thames was flooded
Rain has affected play at Queens Club in Barons Court this week as well as bringing misery to racegoers at Royal Ascot.
LGA environment spokesman Peter Box said: "Flash floods can bring devastation to communities within a matter of minutes, causing enormous disruption to families and businesses.
"Councils up and down the country have been doing everything they can to prepare for heavy rainfalls this week by launching awareness campaigns to highlight the dangers."