Floods wreak havoc in South
Updated on 23 July 2007
The Met Office has warned that the worst is yet to come - nine severe flood warnings have been issued across the country, as water in already swollen rivers continues to rise to a critical level.
Officials said the floodwaters were expected to peak tomorrow night - residents in severe warning areas have been told to evacuate.
Thousands have already been forced to flee their homes, and tens of thousands have been stuck without water or electricity.
The power outages came after an electricity substation was shut down in Gloucestershire - insurers say losses could exceed £2bn.
In Tewksbury, the Severn Trent water company has sent 250 mini-tankers to the town - a first response to deal with water shortages.
The problems were caused by a water treatment facility succumbing to the floods.
Emergency workers in Gloucester have been working frantically to shore up the banks of the river Severn - it's almost reached the top of the city's flood barriers - just 30cm away.
Flooded areas of Oxfordshire are preparing for worse to come - as water levels in the River Thames continue to rise. Hundreds of homes have already been flooded, and fire officials said the river is expected to burst its banks near Abingdon later today or tomorrow.
In Gloucestershire the army has been drafted in to take food, water and medical supplies to towns and villages completely cut off by the rising waters.
In Gloucester itself, the River Severn has swamped whole neighbourhoods. Residents say it is the worst flooding they've ever experienced.
Gordon Brown has been touring some of the worst-affected areas, and has promised a review of flood defences and drainage, as well as more money for emergency relief work.
In most of the affected areas it is still raining today - with more wet weather expected on Wednesday and again at the weekend.
Flood help: Environment Agency
The Environment Agency's website contains useful information on what to do in the event of a flood:
Current Flooding Situation - The latest regional flood alerts.
Preparing for a flood - advice on simple home defences and precautions to undertake.
What to do if a flood happens - Action and safety steps.
Who can help? - Who can you contact for help?
