UK now worried about flooding

Flood warnings were in place across much of Britain today as heavy rain and melting snow ran off frozen and waterlogged ground, swelling rivers. The Environment Agency issued 23 flood warnings for England and Wales, including 13 for the Midlands. More than 150 areas across the country were also on flood watch, with flooding of low lying land and roads expected.

The Scottish Environment Agency said it had one flood warning in place, for the River Nith, with flood watch operating for rivers in another 18 areas.

Despite an apparent easing in the most severe cold snap in 30 years, warnings remained in place for icy roads across the north east of England and Scotland and the Met Office said it expected more snow in some areas next week.

"There is a moderate risk of severe weather affecting parts of England, Wales and southwest Scotland on Wednesday," it said on its website. "Outbreaks of rain are expected to turn increasingly to sleet or snow, especially over hills in central parts. There is a risk of significant accumulations, with perhaps locally 10 cm leading to some disruption to travel."