Torrential downpours equal to more than a month's rainfall have virtually flooded Britain in the span of 24 hours, forcing hundreds of people from their homes and into temporary accommodation. More than 300 homes across Britain have flooded since Sunday, including in Morpeth, Durham, Chester-le-Street and Stockton on Tees, as strong winds battered north Wales, northern England and Scotland. Rain clouds in Britain (Photos: GettyImages) The UK's Environment Agency issued 75 flood warnings and 127 less flood alerts with up to 1.6 inches (4cm) of rain set to fall in the next 24 hours. The heavy rain has also wreaked havoc on power lines and water infrastructure, as local emergency services dealt with hundreds of call-outs and had to rescue people who were left stranded by floodwaters and rivers that surged into homes and businesses. Domestic travel was heavily affected as well, as dozens of roads and railways were overrun with water. Stormy weather According to UK weather report, the major storm – autumn 2012's first for Britain – is set to ease off by Wednesday night, but most flood warning and alerts are expected to remain in place. The UK's Environment Agency further warned that river levels of the River Ouse in Yorkshire and the River Severn are expected to continue to rise, potentially leading to further flooding as the water moves downstream. Minister for Natural Environment and Fisheries Richard Benyon said his thoughts were with those affected by the floods: "I know from experience the devastating effect floods have on homes and businesses," he said. He also offered his support to local MPs in helping affected areas recover: "Right now we need to let the Environment Agency and emergency services get on with their jobs and I'd like to thank them for the tireless work they are doing to keep people safe and reduce the risk of further flooding. "It's vitally important that people don't take dangerous risks at this time. Signing up for the Environment Agency's flood alert service will give people the very latest news on the risk to their area." Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter