A major incident declared in Somerset remains active as the region grapples with the aftermath of Storm Chandra and sustained heavy rainfall. On Monday, January 27, more than 50mm of rain fell in several parts of the county, leading to rivers overflowing, and causing extensive flooding of homes and businesses.
Somerset Council has been coordinating multi-agency response efforts through a major incident cell based at Bridgwater Police Station, holding frequent meetings to manage the crisis effectively.
As of Friday, January 30, water levels have stabilized without significant overnight rises. However, additional rainfall is forecast over the coming days, keeping the major incident status in place.
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Approximately 50 properties across Somerset have experienced flooding, with areas like Moorland, Saltmoor, and Currymoor identified as particularly vulnerable to further inundation. Council personnel are actively visiting households in at-risk zones, advising residents to stay prepared for possible evacuations, although no mandatory evacuations are currently ordered.
The Environment Agency (EA) reports six active flood warnings and eleven flood alerts throughout Somerset. They note that while water levels across the Somerset Levels and Moors are stabilizing, ongoing rainfall and saturated ground conditions mean river levels remain high, and spillways continue to discharge water.
The EA is operating pumping systems around the clock and utilizing the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal to facilitate water movement from vulnerable catchments. Efforts are also being optimized to leverage lower spring tides expected next week.
Storm Chandra marks the third major storm to impact the South West in recent weeks, following Storms Ingrid and Goretti, each bringing heavy rain that contributed to the current flooding crisis, including submerged roads and railways.
Looking ahead, a new yellow weather warning has been issued for Devon and Cornwall for the evening of January 30 and throughout January 31. The Met Office anticipates 10 to 20mm of rainfall widely, with localized amounts up to 30mm over moorlands and parts of west Cornwall. Given the saturated ground, flooding and disruptions are probable, compounded by strong winds in some areas.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared as authorities continue to monitor and respond to evolving weather conditions.