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27 December 2015

Further troops are called in as severe flooding continues in the north of England

A further 500 troops have been called in to help provide flood relief to affected areas.

By New Statesman

Some 500 extra troops have been brought in to deal with “unprecedented” flooding in Yorkshire and Lancashire, joining the 400 already there.

The teams are currently helping to evacuate residents in York, where experts suggest that up to 3,500 homes could be at risk.

After an emergency phone conference, David Cameron pledged to “do everything we can to help people in this, their hour of need”. The Prime Minister is expected to visit affected residents on Monday.

The Met Office currently records red flood alerts, meaning there is a risk of danger to life, in five regions: the North West, North East, Midlands, Wales and Tayside in Scotland. Further orange alerts are in place in the South East and South West of England. The latest updates are available on the Met Office website.

What to do if your area is affected

The government maintains a website with advice on what to do before, during and after a flood, including details of how to access emergency accommodation, report gas leaks and other hazards and receive help pumping water.

Specific detailed information about how to prepare for flooding is available from the National Flood Forum.

Floodline is a 24-hour service available on 0345 988 1188. You can also sign up for flood warnings online if you’re not sure of the risk to your area.

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