Flood Alert Issued for East Somerset Rivers as Water Levels Rise

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Alert (Severity Level 3) for the East Somerset Rivers area. The alert was officially raised on February 22, 2026, following a rise in river levels in the upper reaches of the Rivers Brue and Sheppey.

Affected Areas

The alert covers several geographic regions within Somerset, specifically focusing on the River Brue, River Sheppey, North Drain, and South Drain. Residents should be aware that flooding may affect locations near these rivers, with low-lying land and roads most at risk. Specific areas of concern include:

• The B3151 Glastonbury to Meare Road
• Glastonbury Millstream (potential overtopping)
• River Brue at North Drain and Westhay (potential overtopping)

What You Should Do

The Environment Agency advises residents and travelers in the Wessex area to take the following precautions:

• Take care and avoid walking, cycling, or driving through flood water.
• Monitor local weather reports and river levels closely.
• Stay away from riverbanks and low-lying areas where overtopping is possible.

Expected Conditions

While river levels in the upper reaches have begun to fall, a significant volume of water remains on the moors and in the rivers downstream of Glastonbury. Combined with Sunday’s rainfall, these conditions keep the flood risk elevated. Overtopping is considered possible from the Glastonbury Millstream and the River Brue at North Drain and Westhay.

Timeline

• Sunday, Feb 22, 2026: Rainfall is expected to ease following morning and overnight precipitation.
• Monday, Feb 23, 2026: The day will start mostly dry, though a new weather system may bring periods of rain later, though high totals are not forecast.
• Tuesday, Feb 24 – Wednesday, Feb 25, 2026: Drier conditions are expected to return to the region.

The Environment Agency continues to monitor the situation and will provide an update by 1:00 PM on February 23, 2026, or sooner if conditions change.