Large areas of flooding along the Thames

The transcript describes a severe flooding situation affecting homes and businesses along the Thames. Rising river levels have led to significant challenges for residents, with many relying on sandbags for protection. Thames Water is unable to pump out water until levels peak. Communities are preparing for potentially worse conditions, moving belongings to higher ground and waterproofing homes. The situation remains unpredictable, with residents waiting to see if they will be affected again.

What is the significance of sandbags in the context of the flooding described?

What challenges do communities face regarding the prediction of flooding?