A major incident has been called in Somerset as agencies step up their response to Storm Chandra.
Somerset Council, the Environment Agency and emergency services are working together to support communities following heavy rain and extensive flooding overnight. Although the weather looks drier tomorrow, the risk of flooding on the Levels and Moors remains high as rainwater moves through the system.
With further flood warnings expected to be issued in areas such as Moorland, the major incident has been declared as a precaution to allow resources to be shared should the response need to be stepped up. Residents are encouraged to sign up for the latest flood warnings here Check for flooding in England – GOV.UK. Further updates will be provided on Wednesday 28 January.
Last night brought significant rain – water levels are continuing to rise and the weather continues to be wet across the next few days with heavy showers at times, and a further Met Office warning in place for Thursday. There is no opportunity at this point for ground to recover, it remains saturated.
So far it is estimated around 50 properties have been affected by flooding across Ilminster, West Coker, Taunton, Mudford and West Camel but this could increase in the coming days. Local Authority Liaison Officers are visiting these areas to support residents. If your property has experienced flooding, please report it to us via this link Flood report – Self Service.
Leader of the Council Bill Revans said:
“The decision to declare a major incident at this stage means we are well placed to respond to this ongoing situation. Storm Chandra brought more than 50mm of rain to parts of Somerset last night, on top of already saturated land, and this has caused widespread disruption. We know many communities have been impacted and our thoughts go to all those experiencing flooding.
“We’ve had teams working through the night and we are continuing to respond to many reports of roads which remain impassable. Please avoid travelling if you can and never attempt to drive through flood water. The weather forecast remains challenging so we will be working with colleagues in the emergency services to ensure we are prepared should the situation continue to deteriorate.
“Our priority is to support our most vulnerable residents and to make sure people are aware that help is available.
“We are very aware of the potential impact that this amount of rain in the upper catchment will have on those who live on the Somerset Levels and Moors and our partners in the Environment Agency are working hard to make sure that the right response is in place to minimise the impact on vulnerable homes and communities. Somerset Council is putting contingency plans in place to prepare to support residents should the worst happen.”
There remain numerous flood warnings and a number of flood alerts in place – residents should check if they are at risk here Check for flooding in England – GOV.UK
Council teams dealt with reports across the county throughout the night with extra resources from contactors Kier deployed, operating jetting units, clearing debris and flooded roads where possible.
A number of roads are closed – the situation is changing so residents are advised to check for updates on the Travel Somerset Facebook page or the Roadworks and travel information page and plan carefully before setting out.
Do not drive through flood water. More information about safety during floods on the road can be found here: Adverse weather conditions
There were around 30 school closures today due to the weather. For information on school closures over the coming days, please visit School closures.
Anyone worried about flooding or impacted by flooding can find advice and guidance at Flooding information and advice. If there is serious risk to life due to flooding always call 999.
Anyone needing to leave their home due to flooding is reminded to take any medication they may need with them.
Waste collections
Due to the high number of inaccessible properties and the impact of road and travel disruption, crews will not be able to reach everyone.
Recycling collections missed on Tuesday: residents should bring their boxes and bag in, and re-present their recycling on their next scheduled collection day.
Rubbish collections missed on Tuesday: crews will attempt to return later in the week, which could include collection on Saturday 31 January.
Garden Waste collections missed on Tuesday: crews will attempt to return later in the week, which could include collection on Saturday 31 January. Residents should leave their rubbish and garden bins out for a return collection.
Keep an eye on social media for updates as the position may change quickly. Residents can also report a missed collection online, where details of recollection will be available: www.somerset.gov.uk/missed-collection
