Floods warning amid rain and thaw

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Flooding is set to become the latest weather hazard, as the country faces heavy rain and rapid thawing of snow.

The Environment Agency (EA) has sent out a series of flood warnings as forecasters predict heavy downpours and milder temperatures on Thursday, even as parts of the UK faced a fresh bout of snow on Wednesday.

The agency has issued five flood warnings in the Midlands and the north east of England, and two dozen flood watches elsewhere.

Steve Ellison, from MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association, said a front from the Atlantic was expected on Thursday evening bringing wind, heavy rain and sleet over the hills.

The Environment Agency said: "Higher temperatures combined with heavy rainfall could result in a more rapid thawing of snow and increased flood risk.

"There is a low risk of significant property flooding in Wales and parts of England.

"We urge people to stay up to date with weather and flood information from the Met Office and Environment Agency."

Copyright © Press Association 2010

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