Britain hit by torrential downpours

Britain is bracing itself for more heavy rain after thunderstorms caused flash flooding across the country. Forecasters have predicted that the storms coming in off the Atlantic will not be as heavy as Monday’s which left homes and businesses across the country under water.

Flooding across the country has left many residents checking their home insurance policies. Norfolk County Council reported that emergency services received around 30 calls in two hours. Major routes were shut in Exeter and Devon causing chaos for commuters. In Cornwall, the Fire Brigade was called out to flood-hit homes in St Austell.

According to MeteoGroup, the weather division of The Press Association, 16mm of rain fell in just one in Cranwell in Lincolnshire.

Laura Gilchrist, from MeteoGroup, said: "Many parts saw heavy showers, only northern Scotland escaped. And some brought thunder and funnel clouds, which are a precursor to tornados."

She added: "There is a band of heavy rain coming in from the Atlantic, starting in the North West and moving south and eastwards Wednesday."

"The showers will be much lighter and the weather will improve on Thursday."

Copyright © Press Association 2009

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