A number of roads in Somerset remain closed today (Friday 3 November) after Storm Ciaran’s heavy rains and high winds.
Drivers are being urged to take extra care as more rain is forecast this weekend with a Yellow weather warning issued by the Met Office.
Somerset Council’s Highways teams responded to more than 140 incidents when the named storm swept across the Southwest on Wednesday and Thursday. The Council was prepared for the extreme weather with teams on standby ready to respond.
Roads closed (4pm Friday) are:
- A37 Ilchester Road heading to Yeovil from the A303 junction.
- A303 Westbound at Ilchester junction. National Highways report that the A303 will remain closed for at least 24 hours, with a diversion in place.
- B3081 Charlon Musgrove
Several minor roads including Cutts Road, the Muchelney to Langport road and New Road on the Somerset Levels where closure gates are in operation.
There is likely to be some significant surface water elsewhere, particularly in the south of the county and the Levels – drivers are urged to take care. Remember, 30cm of water is enough to move a car – do not drive through flood water. For more information about flood conditions and driving visit Adverse weather conditions (somersetroadsafety.org).
River levels remain very high: the Tone has peaked but rivers in South Somerset and across the Levels are high and a yellow warning is in place on Saturday. Up to 20mm expected on already saturated land. The Council has extra crews on standby during Saturday in anticipation of this.
A small number of homes in the county – fewer than 20 – were reported as flooded.
Residents are advised to check @TravelSomerset on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) before they travel.
Waste services: Around 1,300 collections were missed on Thursday, crews are doing their utmost to return for these today (Friday) wherever access allows. Recycling sites remain open,
Useful links:
- For drain and gully problems, or any issue on the highway visit Report a problem on the road (somerset.gov.uk).
- For health advice when dealing with flood affected areas visit Public Health England
- For advice on cleaning preparation areas after a flood visit the Food Standards Agency
- Follow electric safety advice before switching back on.
- Contact your insurer if you haven’t already and let them know the situation.
- Use the SWIM website to update flood records/record recent flooding.
Looking after mental health
Heavy rainfall may trigger feelings of anxiety, fear or worry, particularly for those who have been previously affected by flooding. Here are some ways to help reduce any feelings of anxiety caused by heavy rainfall and the activation of local flood defences:
- Talk to somebody about how you are feeling, if you don’t feel able to talk to friends or family you can call Mindline – Somerset’s emotional support and mental health helpline which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 01823 276 892 (local) 0800 138 1692 (freephone).
- Try and do activities that help you to feel less stressed like exercising, reading, listening to music, or meditating.
- Help neighbours and others in your community, look out for each other
- Follow normal routine as much as possible.
- Visit the Every Mind Matters website where you can find lots of tips and exercises to help manage anxiety.
Stay up to date on weather information and warnings: Check for flooding – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
