Extra water pumps deployed across Somerset

The Environment Agency have confirmed it's been the fourth wettest July to November period since records began

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 15th Dec 2023

Extra pumps are being deployed by the Environment Agency to help relieve water levels after heavy rain across much of the county.

They say it's been the 4th wettest July to November period in Wessex since records began in 1871.

The Somerset Rivers Authority add its currently an 'improving situation' here in the county, but there remains a lot of standing water on the moors and in low-lying areas.

The extra pumps at Long Load, Midelney, North Drain and Northmoor are being rolled out this week in a bid to increase the Environment Agency's capacity to empty the moors, ahead of any possible future bad weather.

The Somerset Rivers Authority sat November has been the fifth consecutive month in the Wessex area which had 'above average' rainfall - and the ground conditions remain wet.

The number of pumps across Somerset have increased 'proactively' by the EA ahead of the festive period, which is hoped will ease any pressure which the region may face in the short-term, and locals have been thanked for their patience for any disruption.

Following the floods, emergency flood gates remain closed on Cutts Road, New Road and Langport Road - and you are urged to keep an eye on Somerset Council's Highways social media pages for any updates.

There are two flood warnings and three flood alerts in place for Somerset which you can keep an eye on - over on the gov.uk website.

You can find out more about this story - and how to prepare for flooding - on the SRA website.

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