Putting some precious items into storage may be a good idea for many people in the UK, following the publication of new government statistics.

The new National Flood Risk Assessment figures reveal that over ten million people are living in homes which could be at risk of flooding – twice the original prediction.

Furthermore, many more could find themselves in trouble in the future as climate change increases rainfall in the UK.

One of the places worst affected is London, as the landscape is fairly flat, densely populated and still reliant upon Victorian drainage systems.

Simon Black, head of flood mapping at insurer Norwich Union, told the Independent that people need to take responsibility for their belongings.

"If I lived in a high-risk area, I would be doing as much as possible to reduce my own risk," he added.

Last night, two weeks' worth of rain fell in four hours in North Yorkshire, according to the BBC.

By putting items into storage, people may be able to ensure that they are well protected if their home is at risk of flooding.

Written by Graeme Pieterson