Latest on today's flooding in Somerset and Devon as major incident declared

  • Watch footage from flash flooding in Somerset and Devon

A major incident has been declared in Somerset with homes evacuated as mudslides have closed roads after flash flooding hit the region.

Avon and Somerset Police said it's working with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and Somerset Council following the flash floods which hit on Tuesday 9 May.

There are more than 20 flood warnings in place across the South West.

Homes have been evacuated in North Cadbury, Queen Camel and surrounding villages. There were also severe flash floods in Devon, including in Sidmouth and its surrounding villages.

Some roads, including the A359 at Queen Camel, are also closed due to mudslides.

There are currently more than 20 flood warnings in place across the region. Credit: Flooding in Frome

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: "A major incident has been declared regarding flooding in the Galhampton, North Cadbury, and South Cadbury Areas.

"Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue have several resources deployed to the area to deal with the situation.

"Please avoid driving through floodwater. If you come into contact with floodwater, please take the necessary steps to decontaminate yourself and clothing appropriately.

"Should you find yourself in an emergency situation involving floodwater, please ring 999."

The Environment Agency has issued multiple red 'act now' flood warnings in Somerset.

It says: "Flooding is expected in this area. This means properties are at risk of flooding. Please take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather and river conditions."

Queen Camel, in South Somerset, has been hit by flooding. Credit: Anthea Pryce

Roads closed

Many roads are still blocked and closed as Travel Somerset said: "Following last night's flooding the A359 at Queen Camel remains impassable.

"Also reports that Ilchester Road between Charlton Adam and Podimore is closed. Roads around North Cadbury also affected."

Travel Somerset advises people to not drive through flood water. Credit: James Farmer

Where are flood warnings in place?

There are active flood warnings in place for the River Cam, River Brue and Glastonbury Millstream from Lovington to Highbridge.

The following areas are covered by the warning: Weston Bampfylde to Speckington including Queen Camel, Wales, West Camel, Urgashay, Bridgehampton, Stockwitch Farm, the Fleet Air Army Museum and the Speckington Manor area.

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In a statement, an Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Heavy thundery showers have resulted in surface water flooding of several properties in parts of East Devon and Somerset overnight.

“We have field teams on the ground assisting the response and assessing the impacts of the flooding on our assets, monitoring river levels and checking flood defences and gates, and clearing trash screens.

“Showers have been forecast for the next two days but, as a precaution, we urge residents to sign up for flood warnings and continue to monitor the weather reports.

“There has also been widespread disruption to roads and travel across the area so please check the road situation before setting off on a journey.”

  • Watch crews from Wellington Fire Station making their way through high water near Bathealton in Somerset

River Cam flood warning map in Somerset Credit: Environment Agency

Where are flood alerts in place?

  • East Somerset Rivers

  • Rivers Yeo and Parrett, downstream of Yeovil to Steart

  • Lower Tone and Parrett Moors

  • River Yeo and River Parrett Moors around Muchelney and Thorney

  • South Somerset Rivers, Upper Reaches

  • River Tone catchment