Flooding Hits South West

The Environment Agency issues dozens of flood warnings across Devon, Dorset and Somerset after severe rain.

Latest ITV News reports

Torrential rain causes flash flooding in Gloucestershire

Drivers are being urged to drive carefully Credit: Barry Batchelor/PA

Heavy downpours led to flash flooding in Gloucestershire overnight.

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue were called out to two flash flooding incidents in Great Witcombe due to a localised heavy downpour.

There is standing water on some roads across the county, and motorists are being urged to drive carefully.

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Dorset residents warned of further flooding risk

Residents in Dorset are being warned of a further risk of flooding following last weekend's flash floods. With more heavy rain forecast in the next few days, and the ground already saturated, there are concerns some areas could flood again.

It is hoped that the flood water will continue to drain away, however more heavy rain is forecast in the next few days. We are working closely with all our partners to monitor weather conditions and maintain safe roads and reliable journeys. Drivers should plan their journeys before setting out, check weather conditions, leave extra time for their journeys if travel conditions are poor, and delay their journey if the weather becomes severe."

– – ROBIN HERRINGSHAW, HIGHWAYS AGENCY'S EMERGENCY PLANNING MANAGER IN THE SOUTH WEST

Six weeks of heavy rainfall has resulted in exceptionally high groundwater levels. We've had some massive downpours in the past week, with some areas seeing more than double the long term average. This has resulted in some property flooding from groundwater sources. We're expecting further heavy downpours this weekend which unfortunately means that there is a risk of further property flooding across Wessex, and from groundwater flooding in some areas of Dorset.

– DAVE BUNT, ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

FLOOD WARNING: Dorset

A Flood Warning has been issued by the Environment Agency for the Lower Frome from Dorchester to East Stoke. Flooding is expected for areas in Dorchester, West Stafford, Bockhampton, Lewell, Tincleton, Pallington, Waddock, Moreton, Wool and East Stoke over the next few days.

Residents are being warned to take precautions. More details can be found on the Environment Agency's website.

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VIDEO: Flooding causes severe damage in Somerset

Flash flooding caused huge problems in Somerset today where a torrential downpour caused severe damage to homes and businesses. Over half the monthly average for July fell on one small area in less than 15 minutes.

The flood hit the tiny hamlet of Croscombe on the outskirts of Shepton Mallet. Children at a nearby school in Bowlish were evacuated as a precuation. The Environment Agency is tonight keeping a close watch on surrounding villages as more heavy rain is forecast. Richard Payne reports.

Fears the River Sheppey could burst its banks

There are fears this afternoon that the River Sheppey in Somerset could burst its banks near to the village of Godney. Avon and Somerset Police are currently knocking on doors to alert people.

This kind of localised event is difficult to predict but is devastating when it happens. It's important in this situation that people should not attempt to drive or walk through the flood water. Our teams have been hard pressed this week already and we're doing all we can to contain the situation and prevent it getting worse

– John Rowlands, Environment Agency

Flash floods left cars stranded and roads under water in and around Shepton Mallet earlier today. Around 30mm of rain, over half the monthly average for July, fell in an isolated area in less than fifteen minutes flooding the pub in Croscombe and nearby homes.

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