Insurers warned of 'major flooding' as 50-year storm looms

Insurers are bracing themselves for flooding as a once in 50-year summer storm is predicted to batter parts of the UK for the next two days.

The Environment Agency says the South West, Midlands and Wales should ‘prepare for flooding’.

The Weather Channel says there is a 50 per cent chance of a once-in-50 years 80mm deluge in just 12 hours, according to The Telegraph.

Peter Quarmby, the Environment Agency’s South East flood and coastal risk manager, said: “We have seen exceptional rainfall in the region over the past few days and have seen the devastating effects that flooding can cause.

“Our thoughts are with those who have been affected.

“We are focusing all efforts in working in areas that have been affected by flooding over the past few days to lower river levels and will continue to work alongside our emergency partners to assist flooded communities with immediate response and recovery.

“Latest forecasts indicate that heavy rainfall is again expected to cross the South East on Friday and into the weekend. We urge everyone to remain vigilant ahead of further rainfall tomorrow and over the weekend.

“We are monitoring the weather forecasts very closely and the possibility remains that we could issue further flood alerts in response to any significant rainfall.”