Somerset remains on high alert as a major incident continues due to persistent flooding risks affecting homes and businesses across the county. Emergency services and the Environment Agency (EA) are actively monitoring the situation, with teams visiting properties at risk.
Despite only moderate rainfall on Monday, February 9, the land in Somerset is fully saturated, and water levels remain dangerously high. This ongoing challenge has prompted Somerset Council, the EA, local emergency services, and voluntary organizations to maintain a close watch on vulnerable areas.
Rest centres are prepared and can be rapidly opened to accommodate residents who may need to evacuate their homes. Over the past two weeks, Somerset Council has received more than 5,000 reports concerning road defects caused by the flooding.
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On the Somerset Levels, all four roads equipped with emergency closure gates remain shut, along with several other main routes in the area. Fortunately, the tidal cycle is transitioning to a phase with less variation between high and low tides, which reduces pressure on rivers and pumping stations, aiding flood management efforts.
Although no immediate weather warnings have been issued, the Met Office predicts more rain for Somerset, which could further strain already sensitive river systems. Currently, five flood warnings and 11 flood alerts are active throughout the county.
Residents are strongly advised to avoid walking or driving through floodwaters due to hidden dangers such as deep water, sewage contamination, and submerged hazards.
In response to the ongoing situation, NHS Somerset reminds the public that 90 community pharmacies and several Urgent Treatment Centres remain available for medical assistance.
To provide support and information, a community information point will be held on Wednesday, February 11, at the Talking Café within the Angel Café in Langport. Here, locals can engage directly with members of the multi-agency task force managing the flood response.