Parts of UK are facing an “increased likelihood” of flooding this winter following a wet October.

The British Environment Agency warned that the west of the country was most at risk after “persistent” wet weather had left the ground very wet.

A  strong westerly jet stream is expected to “dominate” through much of November bringing bands of rain, the agency said.

It added that strong winds could increase the risk of flooding, as leaves and branches block drains and rivers.

Officials urged families and businesses to check their flood risk.

“The most important thing that we can all do to protect ourselves from the devastation that flooding can cause is to be prepared,” said David Rooke, director of flood and coastal risk management at the Environment Agency.

“Every £1 spent on protecting communities from flooding saves £8 in repairing damage.

“Over the last three years, we have protected an additional 182,000 homes and businesses with new flood defence schemes.”

Meanwhile, homes on low-lying land on the Norfolk and Suffolk coast could be flooded on Thursday night, a spokesman said.

A combination of possible gale force winds, large waves and a moderate coastal surge could lead to localised flooding.

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