SOMERSET Council teams are supporting communities after heavy rain caused flooding in several locations across the county.
Homes in parts of Chard, Ilminster, Somerton and South Petherton were among those affected and more than 100 people were evacuated as a precautionary measure in the early hours of this morning (January 27) due to concerns about the potential for further flooding.
Rest centres were set up in Somerton, Chard and Ilminster and manned by Somerset Council staff working alongside volunteers from the community.
A major incident was 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 evacuated from a nearby residential park estate.
A number of roads were closed due to flooding and debris, with Highways teams working overnight to deal with nearly 50 incidents.
The clear-up has continued throughout today with teams working across the affected areas.
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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.”
Further rain is forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, with the potential for freezing temperatures too on Tuesday. The multi-agency response will be maintained until further notice.