River levels trigger flood warnings

Residents whose homes and businesses were damaged by floodwaters just weeks ago have faced further clean-ups after more flooding across Yorkshire.

Thirteen separate flood warnings were issued across the Yorkshire region, the majority of which were in York and surrounding villages.

Many of the communities affected have been trying to get back on their feet after serious localised flooding in November.

The Environment Agency said 76 flood warnings - meaning flooding is expected and immediate action should be taken - were in force nationwide on Wednesday. There were also 109 flood alerts nationwide, warning residents to be on their guard as floods are expected.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: "Despite the improving weather conditions, there is a continued risk of localised flooding over the next few days as river and groundwater levels are still high."

Riverside communities along the Ouse in Yorkshire and Thames are among those at risk, the spokesman added.

Groundwater levels are high in Berkshire, South Gloucestershire and parts of Lincolnshire and temporary flood defences remain in place along the Severn at several locations including Ironbridge and Upton.

The River Ouse in central York, which has flooded several times in the past few weeks, has spilled over its banks again and is currently more than 13ft (4m) above its average summer level.

Pumps were being used to clear water from pubs, restaurants, homes and hotels along its banks on Wednesday. Many of the businesses hit were in the process of being renovated and have not been able to reopen since November's deluge.

Residents in several villages along the Ouse to the south of the city, including Fulford, Acaster Selby, Acaster Malbis and Naburn, were either flooded or cut off by standing water.