Severe flood warnings issued as more rain lashes the north

More than 190 flood alerts and warnings have been issued across England and Wales as Britain braces for torrential rain and further flooding on Boxing Day.

As much as 120mm of rain was expected to fall in some parts of the north-west between Christmas Day and Boxing Day, meaning already-swollen rivers in Cumbria are at risking of bursting for the fourth time this month.

Five severe flood warnings have been issued by the Environment Agency for Lancashire - meaning there is a danger to life.

Troops helping to set up flood defences in Appleby. Credit: Ministry of Defence

The Army was deployed to towns across the region to build up flood defences before Storm Eva hits, bringing winds of up to 80mph and heavy rainfall with it.

The Met Office issued an amber warning of rain for Cumbria and the north-west.

This was later expanded to parts of West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire as they warned of an increased risk of disruption due to river and surface water flooding.

More than 190 flood alerts and warnings have been issued Credit: EA

The government's emergency Cobra committee met on Christmas Day to discuss the risk of flooding, ahead of what is expected to be a tough 36 hours for parts of northern England.

Speaking afterwards, Environment Secretary Elizabeth Truss said 700 Environment Agency staff were ready to respond, adding that 85% of the country's temporary flood barriers are in the affected region.