The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for East Somerset Rivers, including the Rivers Brue, Sheppey, Glastonbury Millstream, and North and South Drains, warning residents and businesses to prepare for potential flooding.

Particularly vulnerable is the stretch of the River Brue upstream of Bruton Dam, where water levels are teetering dangerously close to capacity, threatening nearby fields with flooding.

Similarly, the Sheppey area is under scrutiny, with local authorities bracing for potential overflows that could impact the community.

The immediate forecast offers little reprieve, with more rain expected to lash the region today and heavier downpours predicted for tomorrow.

Although a temporary drop in river levels might offer a brief respite, the Agency is preparing for water levels to surge once again in response to the continuing rainfall.

In anticipation of the escalating flood risk, the Environment Agency is monitoring river levels and clearing potential blockages to mitigate the impact. They are issuing a warning to the public to steer clear of flood-prone areas, advising against using low-lying footpaths and bridges near watercourses and urging residents not to risk traversing floodwaters.

To check the latest information for your area

Visit the GOV.UK website to see the current flood warnings, view river and sea levels or check the 5-day flood risk forecast: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/target-area/112WAFTESR

Or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 using quickdial code: 210002.

Follow @EnvAgency and #floodaware on Twitter.

Tune into weather, news and travel bulletins on local television and radio.

What you should consider doing now

• Monitor local water levels and weather conditions. 
• Get ready to act on your flood plan if you have one.
• Move your car or other vehicles to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.
• Prepare a flood kit of essential items including a torch with spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, insurance documents, water, food, first aid kit and any prescription medicines or baby care items you may need.
• Businesses should inform staff and customers about the situation.
• Check that you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies.
• In rural locations, farmers should consider moving livestock and equipment away from areas likely to flood.
• Avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water. 30 cm of fast-flowing water can move a car and 6 inches can knock an adult off their feet.
• Flood water is dangerous and may be polluted. Wash your hands thoroughly if you've been in contact with it.