Flood Alert Issued for River Yeo and Parrett Upper Reaches in Somerset and Dorset

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Alert (Severity Level 3) for the Upper Reaches of the River Yeo and River Parrett. This alert indicates that flooding is possible and residents should remain prepared as upstream catchments remain saturated and highly responsive to further rainfall.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Wessex area, specifically impacting Somerset and Dorset Council regions. Locations most at risk include areas near the River Yeo, River Parrett, and River Cary. Low-lying land and roads are expected to be affected, with specific concern noted for the Ilchester to Yeovilton road at the end of the runway. Considerable floodwater also remains on the Somerset Levels and Moors.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas are advised to:

• Avoid walking, cycling, or driving through flood water.
• Monitor local water levels and weather conditions closely.
• Avoid putting yourself or others at risk by entering flooded zones.

Expected Conditions

Following rainfall on Sunday, February 22, 2026, catchments are saturated. While rain is expected to ease, the risk of flooding continues due to the responsiveness of the river systems. Low-lying infrastructure and roads are the primary areas of concern.

Timeline

The alert was raised on February 22, 2026. Weather forecasts indicate that Sunday’s rain will ease, followed by a mostly dry start to Monday. A new weather system is expected to bring periods of rain on Monday, though high totals are not currently forecast. Drier conditions are anticipated for Tuesday and Wednesday. The Environment Agency will provide an update on this situation by 1:00 PM on February 23, 2026.