RE: "According to the Met Office, England has had less than average rainfall in 9 of the past 11 months."
Yes, but;
Average rainfall in England = Slightly more than Noah experienced.
Less than average rainfall in England = Only minor flooding.
Take a look at a recent English street scene here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/features/flood_facts.shtml
Find out where we are expecting the next flood here:
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk.../floodwarning/
RE: "You don't live in Manchester do you?" No but I was on holiday in Blackpool a couple of weeks back, which is close to Manchester, and boy did I get wet.