Somerset flooding: recovery work continues after more than 100 evacuated
The aftermath of this winter's flooding continues to be felt
The recovery work continues in Somerset, and across the South West - as the aftermath of this winter's flooding continues to be felt.
Somerset Council teams remain steadfast in supporting communities - and more than 100 people were evacuated as a precautionary measure yesterday.
Read more: Work underway at Somerset care home after 'unprecedented' flooding
Adam Dance, the South Somerset MP which covers places like South Petherton and Chard, told us there needs to be more sandbags ready to go - and support for homes and businesses to protect themselves
He said: "The water just rose so quick, so we need to look at a way of solving that problem, but it will cost an awful lot of money, so we need to think of how to bring in cash from organisations like the Rivers Authority, the Environment Agency and the Government.
"We all need to club together to make sure we have a plan in place, and we have sandbags available on the right locations - that's why town and parishes should try and keep a stock in their relevant communities.
"Chard and Ilminster were also flooded - and we need to make sure there are sandbags ready to go as soon as the water comes. They're no use in the depot when flooding arrives."
Rest centres were set up in Somerton, Chard and Ilminster and manned by Somerset Council staff working alongside volunteers from the community yesterday (27 January), with a major incident 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.
A number of roads were closed due to flooding and debris, with Highways teams working overnight to deal with nearly 50 incidents.
Read more: Somerset Council declares major incident as residents evacuated due to flooding
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 the next few days, with the potential for freezing temperatures too on Tuesday.
We're told the multi-agency response will be maintained until further notice.
Anyone worried about flooding or impacted by flooding can find advice and guidance on the Somerset Council website.
Read more: Fresh disruption across the South West amid stormy weather