Somerset Council offers advice (below) to people effected by flooding, relevant to Wiveliscombe and beyond.   This summary is adapted from their Flooding Update of 19th September 2023.

Although we cannot say that the 17th September flooding was caused or worsened by climate change, the science tells us that events like these are likely happen more frequently and this is the third time Somerset has had this sort of event in 2023.  It’s vital we all become more resilient, as well as helping tackle the causes of climate change, with further heavy rain anticipated in the coming autumn/winter and the potential for further flooding.

Somerset Council will be putting out messages on social media channels reminding residents to protect homes and businesses if they are worried about flooding.

How to report and Obtain Support

Anyone who has experienced property flooding can report it online at: https://swim.geowessex.com/somerset/ email flooding@somerset.gov.uk

Anyone who needs support from Somerset Council can call 0300 123 2224 and choose option 1 during office hours.  

If you spot a problem with a drain or gully, or any issue on the highway you can report it easily and quickly here –  Report a problem on the road (somerset.gov.uk).

Flooding and roads – key information

Heavy rain and flooding present a clear and present danger to drivers – road users are urged NOT to attempt to drive across flooded roads as it is not possible to estimate the depth of the water reliably.

It’s vital to prepare for wet conditions if you have to travel and to proceed with extreme caution if you get caught in flood conditions – you can find information and advice here: Adverse weather conditions (somersetroadsafety.org)

Looking after yourself and mental health

Floodwater can contain hidden dangers such as uncovered manholes or obstacles – so never enter floodwater.

We know that heavy rainfall may trigger feelings of anxiety, fear or worry, particularly for those who have been previously affected by flooding.  Here are some things you can do to help reduce any feelings of anxiety caused by heavy rainfall and the activation of local flood defences:

• Talk to somebody about how you are feeling, if you don’t feel able to talk to friends or family you can call Mindline – Somerset’s emotional support and mental health helpline which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 01823 276 892 (local) 0800 138 1692 (freephone).
• Try and do activities that help you to feel less stressed like exercising, reading, listening to music, or meditating.
• Help neighbours and others in your community, look out for each other.
• Follow your normal routine as much as possible.
• Visit the Every Mind Matters website where you can find lots of tips and exercises to help manage anxiety.
• Stay up-to-date on weather information and warnings. If you’re aware of the latest information, you may gain a sense of control over the situation.

What to do during a flood

There is information to help you on what to do during a flood on the Somerset Prepared website.  The key point is to always stay safe, in an immediate flood emergency or where there is a risk to life, follow the advice of the emergency services.   

What to do after a flood

Following a flood there will be hazards revealed as the water clears, consider the following as you recover from the impacts of an incident.

• Assume floodwater has been contaminated with sewage and avoid contact wherever possible. For further health advice when dealing with flood affected areas visit Public Health England
• It’s important to stop harmful germs that might be present in floodwater from spreading to food. For advice on cleaning preparation areas after a flood visit the Food Standards Agency
• Flooding presents a number of hazards to utilities in the home. Follow electric safety advice before switching back on.
• Contact your insurer if you haven’t already and let them know the situation. They will advise you of the next steps to take in restoring your home and belongings.
• Reporting when your property has flooded helps the Council investigate why the flood has occurred and look for possible methods to mitigate the risk of it happening again in the future.
• Use the SWIM website to update your flood record/record recent flooding.

What can I do to prepare for flooding?

Thinking ahead and preparing for what the weather may bring can make a real difference in your home, business and community.

One of the first things is to check is whether your property is at risk of flooding.

We also recommend taking precautionary measures and purchasing your own sandbags in case of flooding emergencies. If sandbags are not available, you can use:

• rolled-up mats or carpets
• bags of garden compost
• pillowcases filled with soil (don’t overfill them)
• timber boards (possibly screwed to door frames and sealed with mastic)

Protect yourself from future flooding

It is advisable to plan how you’ll respond to a flood. Information and plans are available to help you plan ahead.

We also encourage you to download the ‘Prepare. Act. Survive.’ flood plan to help reduce the impact of flooding.

You can find up to date information on flood warnings by visiting the flood warnings page on the Government’s website.

ENDS