Calmer skies after Storm Claudia do not mean calm rivers. The Environment Agency says river flooding remains likely across parts of England, even though the Met Office rain and wind warnings have expired. Minor flooding on larger rivers could continue into Tuesday, so today is a window to prepare rather than relax.

By 1pm Sunday, there were 26 Flood Warnings (flooding expected) and 74 Flood Alerts (flooding possible). Environment Agency figures confirm 57 properties have flooded so far, while more than 18,000 properties were protected by defences and timely interventions. That protection matters - it shows preparation pays off.

Environment Agency teams are out clearing debris from trash screens, inspecting assets and putting up temporary barriers where needed. These routine actions keep water moving and pressure off communities, especially after heavy rainfall saturates catchments.

River levels are falling slowly, but minor impacts may persist on the Severn, Trent, Ouse and Don, with wider effects possible into early next week, including on the Norfolk Broads, according to the Environment Agency. The advice is clear: steer clear of swollen rivers and never drive through flood water.

Floods Minister Emma Hardy said support is in place, with the Environment Agency, local authorities and emergency services coordinating on the ground. She added that the UK Government has been in touch with the Welsh Government following impacts in Monmouthshire, and urged the public to keep following local advice.

For households, a few quick moves can reduce risk. Sign up for free flood warnings and set phone alerts. Move medicines, documents and valuables upstairs, and charge power banks. Keep away from flood water and take extra care on icy surfaces as colder air arrives.

If you must travel, check routes before you set off and avoid fords or flooded lanes. Pack warm layers and water in the car, allow extra time, and consider delaying non‑essential journeys. If water is across the road, turn around - depth and flow are rarely what they seem.

Small businesses can act today: elevate stock and critical kit, save offline copies of contact lists and insurance details, and photograph current conditions for any claims. Walk sites to spot blocked drains, and test pumps and backup power where installed.

The number of properties protected this weekend - more than 18,000 - reflects years of work maintaining defences and planning for peaks. But engineered walls and embankments work best alongside property‑level protection and informed communities. Reporting debris, checking drains by your home, and agreeing neighbour check‑ins all help.

Stay informed through official channels. Search ‘check my flood risk’ on gov.uk to see local maps, sign up for free warnings, and follow @EnvAgency on X for live updates. With rivers still high in places through Tuesday, the most useful action is to stay alert, look out for each other, and prepare for the next band of rain.