More flooding as weather warnings issued

Huw Oxburgh
Authored by Huw Oxburgh
Posted: Thursday, January 23, 2014 - 16:46

Further flooding is possible tomorrow as the Met Office issue yet another weather warning for in Devon.

Bands of rain are expected to move eastwards across southwest England during Fridaywith up to 20mm of rain expected across most of Devon

With the ground saturated over much of the region, the met office has asked people to be aware of the risk of further local flooding and associated disruption.

The Met Office’s Chief Forecaster said: “Active frontal troughs will move eastwards across the UK during Friday, a combination of mild, moisture laden air and occasionally strong winds bringing further rain to many places.”

The warning in Devon is currently yellow and predicts which predicts a medium likelihood of disruption being caused by the incoming weather.

A more severe Amber weather warning for Somerset as the likelihood of impact is far higher than in the rest of the South West.

With water levels already exceptionally high on the Somerset Levels, people in somerset or travelling through Somerset should be prepared for further flooding.

With more heavy rain expected overnight and at the weekend, Somerset County Council has requested that Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service undertake a full investigation into the impact that the water levels have had on the Somerset area.

This will enable the Council to put in place informed aid relief plans for the ongoing events that are affecting the Somerset water levels.

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service are requesting people to stay out of flood water. If a road has been closed, it is for the safety of the public and closure signs should be respected. This includes driving, walking, riding a horse, canoes and inflatable boats as the flooded area hide many dangers.

It is impossible to tell how deep the water is or the condition of the ground beneath. Your transport or you may be swept away. Vehicles can float away in just two feet of water.

The emergency services and other agencies are working together to ensure people’s safety as the water levels in parts of Somerset are set to remain high for up to three weeks. The supply boat to the village of Muchelney will be remaining in place for as long as it is needed and every attempt will be made to return the area to normality as soon as possible.

A spokesperson for South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “It is important to stay safe and stay informed. Please take note of all available advice regarding heavy rainfall and flooding. For those in the affected areas with ongoing medical conditions we would urge you to ensure you are fully stocked-up on your regular medications so you don’t have to venture out during periods of severe weather.

“The public can be reassured that all emergency, public and health services are working together to provide a safe and effective service to all affected communities.”

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