DRIVERS are being urged to take extra care after firefighters rescued people from two separate incidents involving vehicles becoming trapped in floodwater.

Sherborne Fire Station has shared images showing the aftermath of yesterday’s rescues, warning that moving floodwater can be far more powerful and dangerous than it appears.

In one incident, firefighters said the water was strong enough to move a large vehicle, underlining the serious risks faced by anyone attempting to drive through flooded roads.

Crews confirmed that everyone involved was rescued safely and no one was injured.

However, the incidents have prompted a renewed appeal to motorists, particularly those travelling through unfamiliar areas, to avoid taking chances when roads are flooded.

Firefighters stressed that drivers should never attempt to drive through standing or moving floodwater.

Water depth can be deceptive, hidden hazards may lie beneath the surface, and even shallow-looking water can quickly overwhelm a vehicle.

(Image: Sherborne Fire Station)

Where road closure signs are in place, drivers are urged to follow them and find an alternative route.

In severe weather, the safest option is to avoid driving altogether where possible.

When journeys cannot be postponed, motorists are advised to slow down, increase the distance between vehicles and stay alert for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders, who can be harder to see in poor conditions.

Emergency services also remind drivers to use lights appropriately in reduced visibility, avoid harsh braking or acceleration and listen to local travel updates for information on problem areas.

For those travelling in flood-affected areas, drivers of larger vehicles are warned not to drive through water at speed, as this can create a bow wave that may cause flooding to nearby properties.

Firefighters also highlighted that if a vehicle breaks down in floodwater, crews can rescue people but cannot recover the vehicle itself.

Residents are advised never to walk through floodwater above knee height, as strong currents and hidden dangers such as open drains or debris can pose serious risks.

The message from emergency services is clear: if you encounter floodwater, turn around, stay safe and avoid putting yourself and others in danger.