| Somerset County Council is asking residents to check on their neighbours as the clear-up operation continues following a weekend of extreme weather. Storms Eunice and Franklin have caused widespread disruption across Somerset, with a number of residents still without power. Somerset County Council has been working with power companies and a number of partners – district councils, town and parish councils, emergency services, NHS organisations and many voluntary groups – to identify people who need help and arrange door-to-door visits in affected areas. Western Power Distribution and SSE are working to restore power, but residents in affected areas are urged to check in on their neighbours and ask for help if they need it. You can find more information about power cuts here: Western Power Distribution – Power cut advice, or call 105 for assistance. If you or someone you know needs additional help, you can phone the Somerset Coronavirus Helpline on 0300 790 6275 (option 7) between 8am and 6pm for support. If you need health support, please phone 111 – or always call 999 in an emergency. Councillor David Fothergill, Leader of Somerset County Council, said: “We know the recent storms have caused a lot of damage and the impacts continue to be felt, but it has been heartening to see the way our communities come together in response. “There has also been a fantastic collaborative effort between Somerset’s emergency services, local authorities, and voluntary groups to work together and support our residents. If you have concerns about anyone, please let us know so we can arrange the help they need.” Storms Eunice and Franklin saw a record number of trees down across Somerset, but County Council Highways crews have been working throughout the weekend to clear the damage and debris to keep our roads safe. Since Friday morning, the team have attended a total of 281 weather-related incidents, 258 of which were related directly to fallen trees or dangerous trees affecting the roads. Other incidents included walls and fences down or other debris causing obstructions. As of 7am this morning (Monday 21 February), Highways crews have managed to address the issue and clear the fallen tree in 242 of these incidents, with work continuing today. Cllr Fothergill added: “I would like to thank to our Highways teams who have gone above and beyond to clear the fallen trees and debris and keep our roads safe over the last few days. “It is still very blustery in parts of Somerset today, so please remember weakened trees and branches could still come down. “Our teams will continue to clear incidents as they arise and prioritise key routes to minimise disruption wherever possible.” You can report a problem on the highway at www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/report-a-problem-on-the-road/. To keep up with the latest travel updates in Somerset visit www.travelsomerset.co.uk, or follow @TravelSomerset on Twitter or Facebook. |
Spotted a problem on the road?
November 22, 2024
Whether it’s a pothole, damaged pavement or sign or some mud on the road, you can report it quickly and easily via our Report a problem on the road webpage. Visit our Roadworks and travel information page for all things