Weather forecasters warned Britons to brace themselves for more rain on Friday, adding to a deluge that has already triggered a political furore and raised the prospect of military action.
January has been the wettest on record for many parts of England, causing banks to burst and inundate homes with water and mud, prompting accusations that the government has not done enough to prevent flooding.
The Met Office issued an amber warning for the southwest, in force from 1200 GMT on Friday to 0300 on Saturday, urging residents to be prepared for more rain in a region where boats are already being used to deliver supplies to cut-off homes.
The Environment Agency issued 42 flood warnings - mostly in the Midlands and southwest - which recommend residents take immediate action.
Stung by criticism of inaction, the government has drafted in the military to help stricken areas, and armed forces staff are currently evaluating how they can help.
Environment Secretary Owen Paterson earlier this week confronted angry protesters during a trip to flooded areas in the southwest, where residents have demanded more river dredging to lower water levels.
The Enviornment Agency says it is pumping water around the clock and that dredging may not always be the best response to flooding.
Copyright (2014) AFP. All rights reserved.
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