THE emergency services have issued a plea that nobody travels unless absolutely necessary during this period of heavy flooding.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has had an extremely busy day today fielding calls as the predicted high winds and heavy rain increased.

This resulted in some external and internal flooding, as well as a high number of people stranded in their vehicles after driving through deep flood water, especially in Somerset.

There were no casualties and anyone who did need rescuing was led to a place of safety by the fire crews. 

However, a spokesman said: “Please can we reiterate that nobody travels unless absolutely necessary during this period of heavy flooding.

“We have received an extremely high volume of calls relating to vehicles stuck in flood water, many of which could have been easily preventable.

“Do not drive through flood water.”