By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Environment Agency has urged communities across England to remain alert as significant flood risks persist.
Current forecasts show unsettled weather, with 64 flood warnings and 175 flood alerts in place, alongside rain and snow warnings.
Groundwater flooding remains a concern in Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire, with possible impacts in parts of Kent, East Sussex and North Yorkshire.
In an update, the agency said groundwater levels respond slowly and could cause prolonged disruption.
About 340 properties have been flooded, while more than 22,000 homes and businesses have been protected by flood defences since late January.
Flood teams are working with local councils and emergency services to deploy pumps, clear river blockages and erect temporary barriers.
In Dunball, Somerset, new pumps are removing up to 10 cubic metres of water per second, with capacity expected to rise to 15.
Flood Duty Manager Ben Lukey warned that another band of rain could worsen conditions, particularly on the Somerset Levels.
Floods Minister Emma Hardy said the government is investing £10.5bn to protect 900,000 properties by 2036, alongside additional funding to maintain existing defences.
Residents have been advised to monitor local warnings and avoid driving through floodwater.
