COMMUNITIES in Wiltshire, Hampshire and along the River Thames are being urged to remain prepared for more flooding for the remainder of the week. More unsettled weather over the next few days will see rain falling on already saturated ground increasing the chance of flooding.

Environment Agency teams continue to work around the clock checking and maintaining flood defences, clearing blockages in watercourses, deploying temporary defences, monitoring water levels and issuing flood warnings where necessary.

David Bedlington, regional flood risk manager for the Environment Agency, said: “The Environment Agency’s incident rooms remain open, and our staff are working hard to provide up-to-the-minute information for the public, local authorities and emergency services.

"We have ambassadors out across the South in areas such as Oxford, Abingdon, Guildford and in the Lambourn Valley advising people of what they can do to reduce the impacts of flooding.

“We continue to encourage the public in affected areas to remain vigilant, and to keep a close eye on media reports and weather forecasts. It is important to take extra care in deep or flowing water; do not take risks if you are unsure of the depth of the water or of any hidden hazards.”

Although road conditions are improving, motorists are urged to stay alert to potential dangers and drive responsibly.

People should check the Environment Agency website or follow @EnvAgencySE and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest flood outlook in the south, and sign up to receive free flood warnings, taking action when they receive them.