"Extremely dangerous" storm surges have been forecast in some areas that could raise water levels by up to 11ft (3.35m).

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In Virginia, as much as 12in of wet snow were forecast to hit coastal areas, while the inland Blue Ridge Mountains and other mountainous areas could receive as much as 21in.

BBC: US government shuts down ahead of winter snow storm

Finally, the 2012 forecast showed each of the areas continuing the trend of improving home values, while leading the country in gains.

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The president ordered federal aid to supplement state and local efforts in the areas in the forecast path of Hurricane Gustav.

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Heavy snow - reaching up to 20cm on higher ground - was forecast for the worst-hit areas, along with a number of yellow "be aware" warnings across the rest of the country.

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The survey found that the metropolitan areas with the most optimistic forecast of all for hiring this spring are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, Calif.

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But with temperatures forecast to hit 40C (104F) in some areas, the ministry has warned more fires are likely.

BBC: Russia mobilises 240,000 to fight deadly wildfires

In fact, hiring managers in dozens of metropolitan areas anticipate considerable increases in hiring, while others present a darker forecast.

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However, with Massey exploring new areas and looking for new permits, there could be upside to our base forecast.

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However a forecast of more persistent wet weather for Sunday afternoon and Monday has led to warnings of more disruption for areas already affected by flooding.

BBC: Wales weather: Flood risk as more rain moves in