For the latest version of this update, visit http://somersetnewsroom.com/.

For latest weather forecasts, visit the Met Office www.metoffice.gov.uk

For flood warnings, visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk or call (0345 988 1188).

Latest news

Transport arrangements for Oath

A third All-Terrain vehicle arrives in Somerset to help Oath residents stranded by rising floodwater. The vehicle will begin running today and we are working with the community to tailor the service to their needs. Continue reading “Somerset Floods – Community Update 15th February 2014”

Two severe Flood Warnings remain in place as issued by the Environment Agency on Wednesday. Water levels have risen in Moorland by 7mm overnight with levels continuing to rise. Water is rising by approximately 5mm per hour, this per hour rate is expected to increase overnight.

Latest information on properties (not exact): roughly 36 people remain in Moorland across roughly 16 properties. Moorland village hall is now flooded, the 24hr police-manned information and support centre has now moved to the Old School House in Moorland.

Travel to the Moorland area should be avoided as the area is inaccessible to normal vehicles and 4 x 4’s- it is now only accessible by boat. SDC were tasked with setting-up transportation cell this morning, which will include fire and rescue, county, SDC and military. SDC set-up the cell with SCC now leading this activity. Continue reading “Severe Flood Warnings Continue”

The predicted high tide of early morning February 1st failed to reach the levels of the January 4th floods in central Bridgwater but again drains on West Quay failed and the street filled with water whilst in Blake gardens the Durleigh brook again overtopped and filling the park once more this time was diverted by the new St Saviours temporary flood barrier sending gallons of water cascading via a new water-feature into the Old Taunton road underpass.

On West Quay by the time had turned at 8.30 Somerset Highways engineers were pumping out the drains whilst in Blake Gardens Derek Wall, Sedgemoors Engineer on the spot was waiting forn the river to drop before giving the order to pump out the underpass. Continue reading “February High Tide pass with minor incidents”

It’s fair to say that the world’s eyes have been firmly fixed on the Somerset Levels this week as the argument for dredging appears to be won and something seems to be about to be done, but might it not be in time for this weekends predicted high tides?

Journalists from Prague and Barcelona were in town today interviewing residents about their fears for the weekend. Pictured right is St Saviours Avenue resident George Goodenough who explained to them the history of drainage on the Somerset levels going back to the days of King Alfred. Behind him is the Fountain inn on West Quay currently surrounded by sandbags but resolutely open for business. Continue reading “All Eyes on Westover as Weekend High Tides Approach”