Two found dead as floods recede

TEWKESBURY, England (CNN) -- Two people were killed using a gas-powered pump to drain a flooded basement in Tewkesbury -- the first reported deaths from England's worst flooding in 60 years, officials say.

The two were "possibly overcome by fumes from the pump," Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said, warning residents of flooded areas to use petrol-powered pumps outside.

"It is a real tragedy that we have suffered two fatalities in the past 24 hours which were most likely due to people attempting to remove flood water," Gloucestershire Chief Fire Officer Terry Standing said.

"We would strongly urge everyone involved in this task to ensure they think about safety first."

So far this month England has had nearly two-and-a-half times its normal rainfall, affecting two major rivers -- the Thames and the Severn. Power substations and water treatment plants have been flooded, as well as many homes. Watch as one family begins cleaning up »

Hundreds of people in the worst affected areas were plucked to safety by helicopters of the Royal Air Force and boats. Rescuers transporting the elderly and the sick to safety using inflatable boats was a common site.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who has visited the region, promised to mobilize resources from across the country. He also announced increased funding for flood and coastal defenses across the country.

He pledged $1.6 billion in flood relief.

The government has been criticized over the quality of flood defenses and for a slow response to the crisis.

The wet weather for much of June and July across England and Wales has also affected crops. Farmers are predicting low yields and higher prices -- with several crops due to be harvested in the next month.

Towns lining the River Thames are finally seeing conditions improve, the Environment Agency said on Thursday.

Residents in areas including Reading, Purley and Henley who have been nervously watching the waters rise towards their homes should see levels start to drop throughout the day, officials say. In areas further down the river water levels are not expected to get any higher.

Insurance companies are expecting claims worth hundreds of millions of dollars because of flood damage.

Government officials say they will consider suspending tax collection for people affected by the flooding. E-mail to a friend

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