SEVERAL flood warnings remain in place after Somerset endured another barrage of rainfall on New Year’s Day.

Heavy rain battered the region yesterday (January 1), causing rivers to rise and parts of the county to flood.

In Westford, near Wellington, roads turned the rivers as the deluge took its toll. 

Resident Maria Kerr, who was a victim when the village was flooded in 2013, said: "Thankfully we're not flooded this time but only because we were here to stop it.

"The problem is caused by drains not coping."

The notorious A361 at Burrowbridge, on the Somerset Levels, was again closed both ways and remains closed today, affecting traffic between Taunton and Street.

Bradon Lane in Isle Abbots, South Somerset, became unpassable in the afternoon, causing problems for those leaving the B3168.

Shoppers in Taunton reported the Tone reaching high levels, particularly running under the bridge through the town centre. 

This morning, Western Power said it was currently dealing with several power shortages in the county town.

Somerset County Council's highways teams responded to 43 call outs yesterday and a number of roads are still closed today. 

They are: 

  • A361 between East Lyng and Burrowbridge
  • A359 from Marston Magna to Queen Camel
  • A358 at Donyatt Hill
  • Lipe Lane, Greenway Lane, Stoke Road and Hayden Lane at Henlade
  • Bradford on Tone to Hillfarrance
  • Stoke Road in Martock
  • Amberd Lane in Taunton
  • Hoopers Lane in Stoford
  • Broadway Lane in Broadway from the junction with A358

Meanwhile, sport also fell victim to the weather, with several football matches called off.

Yeovil Town's Championship clash with Watford at Huish Park, which was scheduled for live TV coverage, was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

It was the same in the lower divisions, where rain forced the postponement of Taunton Town's derby game at Bridgwater.

Some 40 warnings are in place across the South-West, while 60 flood alerts have been issued.

People travelling this week are also reminded to check the latest flood updates ahead of making journeys and should not drive through dangerous floodwater.

Last night, Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said: "I have been chairing meetings throughout the day to ensure that the Environment Agency and local councils are on the ground and offering all possible support to their communities.

"We will remain in touch with local councils in at-risk areas and I will be chairing a further meeting of COBR to make sure that everyone is prepared and ready to respond.

"I urge everyone in affected areas to sign up to EA flood warnings and follow the advice issued."

To report a fallen tree or other problem on the highway, call the county council on 0845 345 9155.

Keep up to date by visiting our live traffic and travel page here.

Send your flood stories and pictures to newsdesk@countygazette.co.uk or tweet us @CountyGazette