Flooding incident “stood down”
The major incident declared for flooding across the Somerset Levels has been “stood down” today. The incident was declared on 17 January in response to widespread flooding of the Parrett and Tone. With enhanced pumping and recent dry weather, water levels have subsided. Jim Flory of the Environment Agency (EA) illustrated the point: “We have been seeing an improving picture in Somerset over the last few days, with enough water to fill more than 23 million bathtubs a day being pumped back into rivers.“
Cllr Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset County Council added: “Thankfully, conditions have improved, and I am grateful to colleagues in the Environment Agency for their efforts to bring in additional pumps. We will continue to work closely with both partners and local people to monitor the situation and are well placed to react swiftly should the need arise.”
The A361 between East Lyng and Burrowbridge remains closed with the special flood gates. However the EA say the roadway is “mostly clear of flooding”. The road is expected to open later today. You can get the latest on the A361 from https://twitter.com/TravelSomerset
Currymoor is still approximately 80% full. Pumping activity continues at Currymoor, Saltmoor, Northmoor, West Sedgemoor, Long Load, Westover, Huish Episcopi, and Midelney. In addition there are temporary pumps running at Elson’s Clyce, Haymoor, Fordgate, Kitch Drove and Bridgwater docks. At Dunball, the pumps are operational and running on high tides.