Why was January declared a "major incident" in Somerset?

January was declared a "major incident" in Somerset because it was the wettest month since the major floods of 2014, with water levels rising very rapidly.

What is the High Court case in North Somerset about?

The High Court case concerns a planning inspector's decision to approve 190 new homes on Yatton Batch, a site located in flood zone 3a, which local officials are challenging.

What is the debate regarding farming on the Somerset Levels?

The debate centres on whether to end traditional farming on the flood-prone Somerset Levels and transform the land into natural wetlands due to its ecological importance.

Home / Environment / Somerset's Wettest January Since 2014: Flooding Fears Rise

Somerset's Wettest January Since 2014: Flooding Fears Rise

4 Feb

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Summary

Somerset experienced its wettest January since the 2014 floods.
A planning inspector approved new homes on a Somerset flood plain.
Environmentalists advocate for ending farming on the Somerset Levels.

Somerset's Wettest January Since 2014: Flooding Fears Rise

Somerset experienced its wettest January since the significant floods of 2014, prompting council officials to declare a "major incident" due to the rapid rise of water levels. This event has reignited discussions about climate change's impact on extreme weather, with meteorologists noting that warmer air carries more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall. The region's climate has demonstrably shifted, with a higher average rainfall observed in recent decades, particularly during winter months.

A critical High Court case is currently underway in North Somerset concerning a planning inspector's decision to approve 190 new homes on Yatton Batch, land designated as "flood zone 3a." Local councillors strongly oppose this decision, arguing that building on flood plains is indefensible as climate change intensifies rainfall. They fear this ruling could set a national precedent, increasing risks for residents and creating financial uncertainty.