Last updated at 18:52, Tuesday, 24 November 2009

A severe weather warning has been issued by the Met Office of heavy rain today with more disruption for flood-hit areas.

A rescue in Cockermouth

• Video: Aerial footage of the devastation in Lorton

Services in parts of Cumbria continue to suffer disruption as a result of the floods which have hit the county.

People are still being urged to be cautious as more heavy rain is expected from around 8am this morning.

The Environment Agency says the rainfall could further raise river levels and increase the risk of flooding and is closely monitoring river levels ahead of the rainfall, expected to reach totals of 50 - 75mm across Cumbria up until midnight tonight, with up to 100mm of rainfall over the Cumbrian fells.

The Environment Agency says that while there is the possibility of further flooding in some areas, river levels are not expected to return to those experienced last Thursday and Friday.

There are likely to be flood warnings issued overnight with some small numbers of properties at risk of flooding in towns across Cumbria.

However, river levels across Cumbria remain high, the ground is still saturated and residents and emergency services are being warned to be prepared to take action if necessary.

The public are being warned to stay away from flood water and rivers and follow local advice on road diversions.

First published at 06:51, Tuesday, 24 November 2009
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk