The 18th century bridge at Tadcaster collapsed on Tuesday evening, prompting fears of further flooding and “risk to life” for the people in the North Yorkshire market town. Soldiers were drafted in as the storm-hit bridge began to buckle, battered by the rising waters of the River Wharfe. The Environment Agency instructed people in the ancient town to evacuate immediately.
Tadcaster Bridge in near York collapses, following recent flooding
Around 5pm local time, huge lumps of masonry fell into the gushing torrent. A crowd gathered to witness the demise of the ageing structure, built around 1700. A strong smell of gas was reported following the collapse leaving emergency services wary of an explosion. A 200-metre exclusion zone was established, with soldiers deployed to carry out the evacuation.
A view looking over the collapsed bridge over the River Wharfe that collapsed due to flooding
"This severe flood warning has been issued due to the structural failure of Tadcaster Bridge over the River Wharfe in Tadcaster,” an Environment Agency spokesperson said. "Significant flooding is expected in the Tadcaster area. Those in this area are advised to evacuate immediately. The situation is serious and there is a significant risk to life. Please follow the advice of the emergency services and officials in the area."
Residents forced to flee their homes on either side of the bridge were taken to a rest centre in the local grammar school. The collapse came as Northern England prepares for a further beating from Storm Frank, which has hit the British Isles with torrential rain and gale-force winds.
The bridge on Sunday, consumed by the rising waters
Heavy flooding in recent days has blighted Tadcaster, which sits 10 miles from York. The bridge had already been closed over fears it could give way.
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UK Flooding
Winter weather Dec 30th 2015(01 of101)
People pump water from the Worlds End bar in Dumfries, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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Members of the fire service take a short break as flooding continues in Bandon, Co. Cork, following storm Frank. (credit:Brian Lawless/PA Wire)
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A man wades through floodwater in Dumfries, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(04 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Members of the Swift Water Rescue Teams from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue use boats to pass a rope across the bridge as British Telecom engineers install a fibre optic cable to establish communications at the site of the collapsed bridge over the River Wharfe in Tadcaster which collapsed after heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England with homes in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. Further severe weather is expected with the approach of Storm Frank. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
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A vehicle is driven through flood water in Newton Stewart, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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Rescue workers wade through flood water in Newton Stewart, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A man stands in a doorway as he looks at flooding in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A local man takes his dog for a walk as flooding continues in Bandon, Co. Cork, following storm Frank. (credit:Brian Lawless/PA Wire)
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People gather at a Chinese take away as flooding continues in Bandon, Co. Cork, following storm Frank. (credit:Brian Lawless/PA Wire)
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A man walks past shop fronts as flooding continues in Bandon, Co. Cork, following storm Frank. (credit:Brian Lawless/PA Wire)
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Water from Ullswater floods across the A592 in Cumbria, following heavy rain, as Storm Frank began to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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Emergency services attend the River Douglas in Croston, Lancashire, after part of its bank collapsed, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Peter Byrne/PA Wire)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(13 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: The Environmental Minister Elizabeth Truss visits the bridge over the River Wharfe in Tadcaster which collapsed recently after heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. With the approach of Storm Frank further bad weather is expected to cause severe disruption. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(14 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: The Environmental Minister Elizabeth Truss visits the bridge over the River Wharfe in Tadcaster which collapsed recently after heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Cumbria and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. With the approach of Storm Frank further bad weather is expected to cause severe disruption. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(15 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Isabelle Scott, 5, from Tadcaster hands out bisuits to emergency service personnel at the site of the collapsed bridge over the River Wharfe in Tadcaster which collapsed after heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England with homes in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. Further severe weather is expected with the approach of Storm Frank. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(16 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Members of the Swift Water Rescue Teams from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue use boats to pass a rope across the bridge as British Telecom engineers install a fibre optic cable to establish communications at the site of the collapsed bridge over the River Wharfe in Tadcaster which collapsed after heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England with homes in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. Further severe weather is expected with the approach of Storm Frank. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
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People watch as waves crash over the Cobb at Lyme Regis, Dorset, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Andrew Matthews/PA Wire)
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A man stumbles as he wades through flood water in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A car stranded in flood water in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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Flooding in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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Flooding in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A person wades through flood water in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A man wades through flood water in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A man stands in a doorway as he looks at flooding in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A man holds a pair of shoes as he wades through flood water in Straiton, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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Emergency services by the bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed following recent flooding, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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Emergency services by the bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed following recent flooding, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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A vehicle is driven through flood water in Newton Stewart, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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A fire officer wades through flood water in Newton Stewart, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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Rescue workers wade through flood water in Newton Stewart, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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People walk past downed trees in Galloway Forest Park, Scotland, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Danny Lawson/PA Wire)
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File photo dated 27/12/15 of a bridge (in foreground, next to white building) in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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Emergency services by the bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed following recent flooding, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(34 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: A view looking over the collapsed bridge over the River Wharfe that collapsed due to flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: A view looking over the collapsed bridge over the River Wharfe that collapsed due to flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: The site of the bridge over the River Wharfe which collapsed due to heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: A man looks on at the site of the bridge over the River Wharfe which collapsed due to heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(38 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: A sign for Christmas party bookings is seen on the floor in Tadcaster near the site of the bridge over the River Wharfe which collapsed due to heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(39 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Flood damaged belongings are stacked outside homes and businesses in Tadcaster near the site of the bridge over the River Wharfe which collapsed due to heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
Storm Frank Causes More Flooding In The North of England(40 of101)
TADCASTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Flood damaged belongings are stacked outside homes and businesses in Tadcaster near the site of the bridge over the River Wharfe which collapsed due to heavy flooding on December 30, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused more flooding in parts of northern England, with homes in Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many parts. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) (credit:Ian Forsyth via Getty Images)
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File photo dated 27/12/15 of a bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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The bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed following recent flooding, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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Emergency services by the bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed following recent flooding, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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The bridge in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, which has collapsed following recent flooding, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
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A view of the Ulls Water in Glenridding, Ullswater, Cumbria, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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A man stands with his dogs at a flooded road at Ullswater in Glenridding, Cumbria, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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A view of the Ulls Water in Glenridding, Ullswater, Cumbria, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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A view of a flooded road at Ullswater in Glenridding, Cumbria, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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A view of the Ulls Water in Glenridding, Ullswater, Cumbria, as Storm Frank begins to batter the UK on its way towards flood-hit areas. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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A resident returns to a property in a canoe in floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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Residents use a canoe to paddle to a property through floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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Residents use a canoe to paddle to a property through floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer takes a ruined sofa for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Cawood,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Volunteers pour tea for residents along the bank of the River Wharfe on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer collects ruined childrens books from a house along the bank of the River Wharfe on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Ruined property from Tadcaster business centre is pilled outside for collection on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Ruined property is pilled on Tadcaster High Street ahead of collection on December 28, 2015 in Cawood,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A sign with the slogan 'Love is all you need' is left outside a house on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part.(Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer takes a ruined table for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Cawood,England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
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YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams wade through flood waters that have inundated homes in the Huntington Road area of York after the River Foss burst its banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
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YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams evacuate residents after the rivers Ouse and Foss burst their banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(62 of101)
YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams wade through flood waters that have inundated homes in the Huntington Road area of York after the River Foss burst its banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(63 of101)
YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams evacuate residents in the Huntington Road area of York after the River Foss burst its banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
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YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A resident watches flood waters recede after the rivers Ouse and Foss burst their banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(65 of101)
YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams wade through flood waters that have inundated homes in the Huntington Road area of York after the River Foss burst its banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
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A man wades through the floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(67 of101)
YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams wade through flood waters that have inundated homes in the Huntington Road area of York after the River Foss burst its banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
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YORK, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Rescue teams evacuate residents in the Huntington Road area of York after the River Foss burst its banks, on December 28, 2015 in York, United Kingdom. United Kingdom. Severe flooding has affected large parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as rivers burst their banks. More heavy rain is forecast as dozens of severe flood warnings remain in place. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) (credit:Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images)
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Workers from a taxi firm enter their premises with a teapot and cups of tea, which they have got from a neighbouring wine bar, through the floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
BRITAIN-WEATHER-FLOOD(70 of101)
Workers from a taxi firm enter their premises with a teapot and cups of tea, which they have got from a neighbouring wine bar, through the floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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Workers from a taxi firm leave a neighbouring wine bar with a teapot and three cups of tea, through the floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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Workers from a taxi firm leave via the rear exit of a neighbouring wine bar with a teapot and three cups of tea, through the floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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TOPSHOT - A woman cleans the inside window of her wine bar, as the floodwaters rise from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
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TOPSHOT - Workers from a taxi firm leave via the rear exit of a neighbouring wine bar with a teapot and three cups of tea, through the floodwaters from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
BRITAIN-WEATHER-FLOOD(75 of101)
A man inspects the office of a taxi firm which has filled with floodwater from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
BRITAIN-WEATHER-FLOOD(76 of101)
A man inspects the office of a taxi firm which has filled with floodwater from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
BRITAIN-WEATHER-FLOOD(77 of101)
Men inspect the office of a taxi firm which has filled with floodwater from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
BRITAIN-WEATHER-FLOOD(78 of101)
A man inspects the office of a taxi firm which has filled with floodwater from the rivers Foss and Ouse, after they burst their banks in York, northern England, on December 28, 2015. British Prime Minister David Cameron visited the flood-hit historic city of York on Monday as cities, towns and villages across northern England battled to get back on their feet following devastating storms. Around 500 properties were flooded in York, one of Britain's top tourist attractions, on Sunday as two rivers burst their banks. Some residential streets became so inundated that cars were covered up to their roofs. AFP PHOTO / JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / JUSTIN TALLIS (Photo credit should read JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP/Getty Images) (credit:JUSTIN TALLIS via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(79 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Ruined property from Tadcaster business centre is pilled outside for collection on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(80 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer pushes the remaining water down the drains on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(81 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer takes a ruined Christmas Tree for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(82 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer takes ruined property for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(83 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Ruined property from Tadcaster business centre is pilled outside for collection on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(84 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer takes a ruined television for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(85 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Volunteers help to clean The Works beauty salon on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(86 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer takes damaged property for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(87 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Ruined property from Tadcaster business centre is pilled outside for collection on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(88 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: Volunteers take damaged furniture for collection on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Severe Flooding Affects Northern England(89 of101)
TADCASTER, UNITED KINGDOM - DECEMBER 28: A volunteer mops the floor of William Hill bookmakers on Tadcaster High Street on December 28, 2015 in Tadcaster, England. Heavy rain over the Christmas period has caused severe flooding in parts of northern England, with homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lancashire evacuated as water levels continue to rise in many part. (Photo by Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) (credit:Ben Pruchnie via Getty Images)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(90 of101)
Prime Minister David Cameron (left) talks to Chris Wardle, 46, whose first-floor flat on Skeldergate, a road in York city centre repeatedly hit by flooding, was surrounded by water. Mr Cameron defended funding for flood prevention during a visit to York after towns and cities across the north of England were inundated over Christmas. (credit:Ryan Wilkinson/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(91 of101)
NOTE ALTERNATE CROP Prime Minister David Cameron greets soldiers working on flood relief in York city centre after the river Ouse burst its banks, in North Yorlshire. (credit:Darren Staples/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(92 of101)
Hair 21 salon owner Ian Hargreaves outside his shop in the Lancashire village of Croston, as David Cameron defended funding for flood prevention as he visited York to see recovery efforts after towns and cities across the north of England were inundated over Christmas. (credit:Lauren Brown/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(93 of101)
The clear up continues in the Lancashire village of Croston, as David Cameron defended funding for flood prevention as he visited York to see recovery efforts after towns and cities across the north of England were inundated over Christmas. (credit:Lauren Brown/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(94 of101)
The clear up continues in the Lancashire village of Croston, as David Cameron defended funding for flood prevention as he visited York to see recovery efforts after towns and cities across the north of England were inundated over Christmas. (credit:Lauren Brown/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(95 of101)
Road closures in the Lancashire village of Croston, as David Cameron defended funding for flood prevention as he visited York to see recovery efforts after towns and cities across the north of England were inundated over Christmas. (credit:Lauren Brown/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(96 of101)
A family is rescued from the centre of York by boat, as swamped towns and cities continue to struggle against the Christmas floods. (credit:Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(97 of101)
Businesses continue the clean up in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire after the weekend's flooding. (credit:Steve Parsons/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(98 of101)
The swollen River Ouse from Bridge Street in York, as swamped towns and cities continue to struggle against the Christmas floods. (credit:Jane Kirby/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(99 of101)
Businesses continue the clean up in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire after the weekend's flooding. (credit:Steve Parsons/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 28th 2015(100 of101)
Flooded riverside properties in Kings Street, York, as swamped towns and cities continue to struggle against the Christmas floods. (credit:Jane Kirby/PA Wire)
Winter weather Dec 27th 2015(101 of101)
An elderly resident is rescued by members of a Mountain Rescue team in Huntington Road in York, after the River Foss and Ouse burst their banks. (credit:Anna Gowthorpe/PA Wire)