Flood warnings issued as storms hit England and Wales

The Environment Agency has issued two flood warnings and 21 flood alerts across England and Wales, even as 71.3 per cent of England remains in drought. Significant surface flooding in Birmingham has damaged 32 properties near the Tame Valley Canal. Floodwater also caused train disruptions between Knebworth and London. The Met Office has warned of continued heavy downpours, thunderstorms, and unseasonably strong winds of up to 35mph over the bank holiday weekend. Festivalgoers heading to Reading, Leeds, and Creamfields have been advised to prepare for wet and breezy conditions. The heaviest rain is expected in the North West, Northern Ireland, and north-west Scotland, with potential coastal gales affecting parts of Scotland on Monday.