Somerset Flooded: Extra Pumps Battle Record Rainfall

Parts of Somerset are contending with significant flooding following what experts describe as the wettest week in the region since 2014. Heavy rainfall over the weekend, coupled with the impending arrival of Storm Chandra, has led to weather warnings and the closure of key routes like the A361.

The Environment Agency (EA) has reported approximately 200mm of rainfall since the start of the year, with 100mm occurring just over the weekend. While the Somerset Levels are designed to accommodate some flooding, current river levels are exceptionally high.

In response, the EA is deploying additional high-volume pumps to expedite water removal into the River Parrett. Ian Withers, the EA's area director, stated that current measures are adequate for the predicted rainfall within the next 24 hours, provided there is a brief respite to allow river levels to subside.

Storm Chandra carries an amber warning for southern Somerset and a yellow warning for northern areas. While strong winds are a factor for some regions, the primary concern for Somerset remains the intense rainfall on already saturated ground.

The EA assures that improvements in pumping and drainage capacity have made the county more resilient, stating that a repeat of the severe 2013/14 floods is not anticipated. However, precautionary measures are in place should the rain continue persistently.