Photos: Satellite mapping through clouds

Bill Byford, who volunteers with Bay Search and Rescue at Morecambe Bay, said the maps will provide valuable information about the location of danger zones liable to be cut off quickly by the advancing sea.

The Bay Search and Rescue team responds to emergency calls on the estuary mudflats using a tracked amphibious vehicle - similar to a Snowcat - called a Hagglund (pictured) .

Byford said it's the only rescue operation of its kind in the country and the information provided by these maps will be invaluable in making it easier to navigate this treacherous area.

Photo credit: ESA/Envisat