Unfortunately many people remain at risk, with the threat of disease when the rain eventually comes.

BBC: Britons donate ?72m for East Africa drought aid appeal

Among the many uncertainties, will the cholera outbreak spread because of the heavy rain, and the risk that stagnant water will incubate the disease?

BBC: Tropical Storm Tomas: Tense evacuations in Haiti

Forecasters are warning of more rain this week, with south-west England particularly at risk from flooding.

BBC: Canoeist dies as thaw brings flooding

Heavy rain and sleet will be more likely in some eastern coastal areas, with a risk of localised flooding.

BBC: Snow and sleet forecast for Northern Ireland

The mountains will help induce more rain and will funnel the precipitation -- intensifying flooding and causing an even greater risk of mudslides.

CNN: Japan flooding: 3 deaths, levee breaks, many missing

First, the source of my profit was my willingness to take a risk and to help people by alleviating their potential rain-related misery.

FORBES: You Can Always Depend on the Self-Interest of Strangers

The groups want much more use of moors, marshes and plants to store and clean rain water, instead of allowing it to run straight into rivers and thus increase the risk of flooding.

BBC: UK water resources 'left to weather's mercy'

It said it was receiving a high number of flood-related calls and, with more rain forecast, urged the public to call 999 only if there was a risk to life or risk of serious property or environmental damage.

BBC: Roads flooded after stormy night in Surrey and Sussex