Mr MacAdams, aged 66, seems philosophical, or poetic, about his quest and the meaning of the river.

ECONOMIST: A waterway that says a lot about its city

Spillway gates are likely to be open for weeks, meaning it will be some time before the river falls below flood stage, allowing evacuees to return.

CNN: Mississippi governor urges caution as river crests

River levels have subsided and now just one "severe" flood warning - meaning a threat of "extreme danger to life and property" is posed - applies to parts of the River Eamont in Cumbria.

BBC: Cumbria flood bridges facing safety checks