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 in Glastonbury and surrounding areas to prepare for potential flooding.

Following an intense downpour last night, the River Brue's water levels have surged, setting off warnings especially along the B3151 from Glastonbury to Meare.

The forecast isn't looking any brighter, with more rain expected today and heavy showers predicted for tomorrow. Despite a brief respite anticipated later today, the waters are expected to rise again by Thursday, keeping the threat of flooding very much alive.

The risk zones include notorious overtopping spots from the Glastonbury Millstream and the River Brue at North Drain and Westhay.

Meanwhile, upstream of Bruton Dam, the River Brue is teetering on the brink of spilling over, with nearby fields likely to bear the brunt of the overflow.

The Environment Agency's teams are out in the field, diligently monitoring rainfall and river levels while clearing any blockages that could exacerbate flooding and are asking people to steer clear of low-lying footpaths and bridges near watercourses and avoid driving or walking through floodwaters at all costs.

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 X/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.