‘ENHANCED pumping’ is taking place in a bid to tackle flooding across the Somerset Levels after a major incident was declared.

Extra work began on Tuesday evening (January 17) at Northmoor to reduce the amount of water being stored until river levels allow pumping to resume at Currymoor, which remains full.

County chiefs and Environment Agency (EA) experts said the decision to declare a major incident was a precautionary move, meaning partners become more coordinated and ready to support and take action should the situation worsen.

The EA is currently responding to flooding incidents in Somerset, flood risk in the Bristol Avon area and monitoring rising groundwater levels in Dorset.

The Somerset Levels and Moors are designed to store flood water when the rivers flowing through them over top.

The recent heavy rain has caused spillways – specifically designed low points in the riverbanks – on the Rivers Tone and Parrett to flow and water is stored on the moors.

Ian Withers, of the EA, said: “The sight of water on the Somerset Levels and Moors is obviously a concern to those who have suffered from flooding before.

“Our staff continue to work to the best of their abilities to protect people and properties, install pumps and engage with communities.

“The situation is expected to improve when enhanced pumping begins and we continue to run the Sowy flood relief channel, it is prudent to plan for the worst and going into major incident mode is appropriate, so we coordinate with partners and everyone is ready to respond if needed.”

Cllr Bill Revans, leader of Somerset County Council, said: “The decision to declare a major incident at this stage means we are well placed to respond.

“We will be supporting Environment Agency colleagues on the ground and taking every step to ensure our communities receive the help they need.”

Additional pumps are pumping at Saltmoor and Northmoor, to help reduce levels as much as possible when the River Parrett has capacity.

Extra pumps are also ready to use at Currymoor once conditions allow Once the water level at Currymoor has reduced, Athelney spillway will stop flowing into Northmoor as well as the A361 between East Lyng and Burrowbridge.

A flood warning for that area remains in place and the road is closed.

A warning has also been issued for Saltmoor and Northmoor and agency officers were in the village of Moorland yesterday to meet residents and offer advice and support.

To allow pumping to continue more frequently and for longer at impacted pump stations, water is being diverted to the Sowy flood relief channel and King’s Sedgemoor Drain to Dunball, where pumps are being installed to allow pumping to continue in the event of high tide.

Residents are being urged to check their flood risk by signing up for flood warnings and create a plan so they know what action to take and are prepared to act.

Find out more at https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk.