Residents across the UK have been warned of the risk of burst pipes starting from tomorrow as temperatures rise after days of freezing cold.
The UK has been hit by snow and ice over the past couple of weeks, with the Met Office issuing weather warnings for most of the country.
Currently, the whole of Britain is covered by yellow weather warnings, with a more severe amber warning for ice in force from 9am to 8pm across the North East and Yorkshire, including Sheffield, Leeds and parts of Cumbria.
The Met Office said that after days of cold weather, temperatures will rise from the South West through the next 24 hours, meaning that many people will experience milder temperatures tonight compared to the rest of the day.
As the weather turns warmer, water supply companies including Severn Trent said people should look out for leaks on the private pipework around their homes to spot any sign of burst pipes.
This is because a period of warmer temperatures following colder weather can cause household water pipes to break.
When water freezes within a pipe it expands, putting more pressure on the pipes and joints - and often causing pipes to split or joints to pull apart.
Following a period of cold weather, when temperatures start to rise again, the water contained inside the pipes can start to leak out.
Thames Water says the key steps anyone can take are checking their pipes in any cold places such as the loft or garage, finding their stop tap and turning it clockwise to stop the flow of water.
It is also important to turn off the heating and soak up any escaping water with towels.
Customers can also check with their home insurance company to see if they are covered for leaks and bursts or call a plumber to repair any damage.
Importantly, the water supply company advises switching off the electrics at the mains if there is any water nearby.
It comes after dozens of people were evacuated from their flooded homes and thousands were left without water as two water main burst in north London yesterday.
Firefighters said around 100 properties were affected by "significant" flooding and Thames Water apologised for the disruption.
Station commander Gary Deacon said: "This is a significant flooding that has affected around 100 properties and left thousands without water.
"Shift water rescue crews used boats to move around 20 people to upper floors of properties.
"Three adults and a child were evacuated to a place of safe haven.
"A number of residents have decided to remain in their properties and we're patrolling the affected area to assist any further people who require assistance.
"The water authority are working to isolate the burst water main and firefighters are expected to remain at the scene throughout the afternoon.
"A rest centre has been set up for affected residents at Swiss Cottage Leisure Centre."
