Somerset is bracing for possible flooding as multiple flood alerts have been issued across the county following forecasts of heavy rainfall. On Monday, December 1, the Met Office imposed a yellow rain warning for the South West, effective until 3am Tuesday, highlighting the potential for significant downpours.
Additionally, an amber rain warning affects parts of Wales, with the Environment Agency issuing five flood alerts specifically for Somerset. These alerts warn residents of the risk that rivers across the region may overflow due to the anticipated heavy rain.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Rebekah Hicks explained, “Heavy rain will move over south Wales from late Sunday through Monday. The highest rainfall, reaching 100-120mm, is expected on the highest ground in south Wales. Areas within the amber warning zone could see 60-80mm, while lower elevations typically expect 20-40mm during the day.”
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Wider yellow rain warnings also cover parts of southwest and northwest England, central and northern Wales, and southwest Scotland, where disruptions caused by rain are possible.
Residents in flood alert regions should stay alert and prepare accordingly. This includes ensuring medications and insurance documents are accessible, having a flood plan in place, and avoiding travel through floodwaters.
Flood alerts affect the following Somerset waterways:
- Horner Water, River Aller, Washford River, Hawkcombe, Monksilver, Doniford Streams, and their tributaries.
- Rivers Parrett and Isle along with their tributaries.
- River Yeo (from Sherborne to Yeovil), River Wriggle, Barwick Stream, West Coker Stream, and River Cam.
- North Somerset Rivers including Congresbury Yeo, Cheddar Yeo, Axe, and tributaries.
- River Chew (from Chew Stoke to Keynsham), Chew Stoke Stream, and Winford Brook.
Flood alerts have also been issued in nearby Wiltshire, covering areas such as Mid Bristol Avon, Bathampton, and extending to Badminton in the Upper Bristol area.