Somerset Council teams are supporting communities after heavy rain caused flooding in several locations in the county yesterday (26 January).
Homes in parts of Chard, Ilminster, Somerton and South Petherton were among those affected and more than 100 people were evacuated as a precautionary measure in the early hours due to concerns about the potential for further flooding.
Rest centres were set up in Somerton, Chard and Ilminster and manned by Somerset Council staff working alongside volunteers from the community.
A major incident was stood up to ensure a multi-agency response from Somerset Council, Avon and Somerset Police, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue, local NHS, Environment Agency and other agencies.
The rest centres in Chard and Ilminster have since been stood down, while the Somerton rest centre has continued to cater for about 45 residents evacuated from a nearby residential park estate.
A number of roads were closed due to flooding and debris, with Highways teams working overnight to deal with nearly 50 incidents.
The clear-up has continued throughout today with teams working across the affected areas.
Somerset Council’s Leader Councillor Bill Revans said:
This was a significant flooding incident and we have been doing everything we can to ensure those affected are safe and have all the support and guidance they need.
Our thanks to colleagues in the emergency services who have been working hard all night to get people to safety, supported by the NHS and partners such as the Environment Agency, working alongside our communities.
We are still responding to the incident, and mindful of further rain forecast over the next 48 hours. Please look out for your neighbours, don’t drive through floodwater, and always call 999 if you believe there is serious risk to life due to flooding.
Further rain is forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, with the potential for freezing temperatures too on Tuesday. The multi-agency response will be maintained until further notice.
Advice for residents
Anyone worried about flooding or impacted by flooding can find advice and guidance via the Council’s Flooding information and advice page.
- 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.
- To report flooding on a road or blocked drains on a road, use the Council’s online Report a problem on a road form.
- If your property is owned by us and has been affected by flooding, please visit the Housing repairs page or phone 0300 123 2224.
- Do not drive through flood water. More information about safety during floods on the road can be found Somerset Road Safety’s Adverse weather conditions page.
- For details of schools reporting closures or restricted opening hours, visit the Council’s School closures page.
