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![]() Tuesday, November 3, 1998 Published at 06:54 GMT ![]() ![]() UK ![]() UK mops up after floods ![]() Flood damage is estimated at £100m, according to insurers ![]() People in Wales and the Midlands are continuing their massive clean-up operation after some of the worst flooding in the UK for 30 years. River levels are falling slowly in most areas after torrential rainstorms, but showers and strong winds are expected in many parts on Tuesday. Residents and businesses are counting the cost of the damage, estimated at more than £100m by the Association of British Insurers. Record-breaking rainfall Long-standing October rainfall records were broken in parts of Wales, Manchester and the Midlands. Meanwhile, water levels on the River Severn between Worcester and Tewkesbury are falling very slowly, although one red warning remained in force. Levels are also high around Gloucester, in particular on the River Stour between Hammoon, in Dorset, and Christchurch, near Bournemouth. In Bewdley, Worcestershire, one of the worst affected towns in the Severn Valley, residents are clearing a mountain of mud left when flood waters receded. Further downstream in Upton upon Severn, locals are waiting for several feet of water to subside before beginning a similar clean-up task. Disease threat The Environment Agency has warned that some flooded areas of the UK now face the threat of disease. The agency is warning people living in flooded areas to thoroughly clear away silt left behind when waters recede because it may contain untreated sewage. The waste became mixed with flood water in some areas and householders were being warned to seek medical attention should they experience illness. The measures were being taken as a precaution against Weil's disease, associated with water rats. ![]() |
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