More rain to come for flood-hit Cumbria

Forecasters are warning there is more rain to come for areas of the UK already hit by torrential downpours and flooding.

The Met Office said upland areas of Cumbria could see anther 50mm of rainfall on Monday (23 November), with more heavy rain expected on Tuesday.

More than 20 flood watches, including a severe flood warning, are still in place in the region after 314mm of rain – the worst downpour in British history – fell on Friday (20 November).

There are a further 73 flood watches and warnings across parts of Wales and Southern Scotland, with between 20 and 30mm of rain forecast in places.

The Met Office said strong winds would accompany the downpours, with gusts up to 60mph.

The Environment Agency said it would continue to monitor river levels ahead of the downpour, although levels were not expected to rise as high as last week, when areas of Cumbria were overwhelmed by floodwater.

River levels across the region were expected to remain relatively high for the next few days, particularly on the Eamont and Derwent, which are fed by the Lakes, it added.

David Jordan, Environment Agency director of operations, said Agency officers were assessing damage and checking flood defences around the worst-hit areas.

“While conditions in Cumbria are improving, more heavy rain is forecast and severe flood warnings remain in place,” he added.

“We are urging people to remain vigilant and be prepared to take action if necessary.

“Anyone concerned about flooding should visit the Environment Agency’s website for more information or call our Floodline on 0845 988 1188.”