Rain eases but snow and blizzards are on the way

Severe winter weather affected large parts of Britain yesterday as flooding forced the evacuation of more homes and snow made conditions treacherous for motorists.

Although rainfall eased, high river levels and saturated ground meant that even short showers could lead to further flooding, the Environment Agency warned.

Several inches of snow fell on some high ground, causing difficulties for motorists, and weather forecasters predicted a big freeze next week with the risk of blizzard conditions.

Four severe flood warnings were in place last night – three in Bedfordshire and one in Surrey. The Environment Agency said it was particularly concerned about the levels of the Great Ouse between Turvey and Sharnbrook, the Ivel between Blunham and Sandy, and the Flit between Shefford and Biggleswade, all in Bedfordshire. A spokeswoman said: "A little bit of rain might push [them] over the edge."

Rising river levels flooded two islands on the Thames – Thames Ditton and Trowlock. Some residents of Thames Ditton left the island by lifeboat on Thursday night but others chose to remain in their homes. Residents on Trowlock Island near Teddington were also offered evacuation but refused. In Surrey, the river Bourne from Chertsey to Weybridge, was still subject to a severe flood warning. Fifty-six homes have been evacuated.

Several inches of snow fell in parts of northern England, Scotland and Wales yesterday, making driving conditions difficult. Forecasters expect the weather to get much colder next week, with snow in many areas and temperatures struggling to get above zero. Forecasters said the amount of snow could be "significant".