The Environment Agency has warned people to be aware of the risks of flash flooding as a result of heavy rainfall which began yesterday evening continuing across large parts of the country today.

Jonathan Day, flood risk manager at the Environment Agency, said:

“From Thursday (15th) afternoon and through Friday (16th), scattered showers across parts of England may intensify and become more widespread, bringing a risk of flooding particularly in urban areas. This could lead to localised impacts, including transport disruption, flooding of roads, and potentially property flooding.”

”In the early hours of Friday morning showers will become widespread and torrential. This may lead to flooding, particularly across large parts of the south, including London, which could cause significant disruption during the morning rush hour.”

“Environment Agency teams are out on the ground clearing screens and debris, and will issue flood warnings and alerts where necessary. We will support local authorities responding to surface water flooding. We urge people not to drive though flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car – and check travel arrangements.”

The flash flooding which saw post-heatwave thunderstorms deliver almost half a month's rain overnight in some parts of the UK has already caused travel chaos in parts of England, including a train derailment near Watford Junction this morning.