Photo Credit: Getty Images
 
Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, sought solace in the tranquil English countryside after relocating from the United States. Their move followed Donald Trump's re-election, a political outcome they opposed strongly. 
 
Nestled in the scenic Cotswolds, their newly acquired multi-million-pound farmhouse symbolized a fresh start, blending luxury with pastoral charm. However, this dream has been upended as severe flooding inundated the region, leaving the couple's property swamped.
 
Storm Bert unleashed relentless rains and winds reaching 80 mph, causing the nearby River Thames to overflow. The floodwaters submerged the couple's 43-acre estate, leaving roads impassable and neighbors trapped. 
 
One local resident described the crisis, stating, "The floodwaters are rising by the hour. This is the worst I have seen it in years." Dramatic images reveal the property marooned, a stark contrast to the sunny Californian lifestyle Ellen and Portia left behind.
 
Before the deluge, the pair were seen adapting to their new surroundings. A night out at Jeremy Clarkson's pub, The Farmer's Dog, showcased their attempt to embrace local culture. 
 
Joining celebrities like James Blunt and The Corrs, Ellen and Portia seemed to enjoy their new community. Reports also highlighted their investment in 4x4 vehicles, a prescient choice given the current flooding crisis.
 
The Cotswolds, renowned for its idyllic landscapes, attracts numerous high-profile residents, including David Beckham and Kate Moss. Ellen and Portia reportedly paid £2.5 million over the asking price for their estate, which boasts six bedrooms, four bathrooms, and eco-friendly amenities. Despite these luxuries, the flooding underscores the vulnerabilities of rural living in the face of extreme weather events.
 
Environmental experts have attributed the disaster to climate change, which has exacerbated the frequency and intensity of storms like Bert. The UK's Environment Agency reported that over 50 river systems reached critical levels this week, with damages potentially exceeding £100 million. A spokesperson emphasized, "This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for enhanced flood defenses and sustainable land management."
 
As Ellen and Portia confront these challenges, their decision to relocate abroad takes on added complexity. Their departure from the U.S. was both a political and personal statement, yet their new haven has proven far from idyllic. For the locals and celebrities alike, the flooding serves as a shared ordeal, testing resilience and solidarity amidst rising waters.
 

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