Tanya Gupta
BBC News

Image source, Flood Mary

Ahead of expected flooding last year, we looked at some of the things you can do to prepare for flooding and protect your home.

You can find the full story here, but we have included some of the key points below.

Aluminium tape can be used on air bricks in outside walls to hold back water if people do not have self-closing ones or covers.

Kitchen tables can be protected by standing the legs in welly boots and buckets.

Dry food should be kept safe in plastic, lidded boxes.

Homeowners should also make sure their insurance cover is adequate.

The Environment Agency advised: “Getting ready before a flood saves you money on recovery and time spent out of the property.”

It said planning ahead for flooding was straightforward, quick and free and people should draw up a “personal flood plan, external” to keep themselves and their vital possessions safe.

Local resilience forums, external also help people to prepare.

Be prepared for evacuations and have a grab bag ready containing medication, forms of ID, cash, bank cards , passports, details of prescriptions