FRESH weather alerts across the West Somerset area have been issued by the Met Office for Monday and Tuesday (January 26 and 27).

The yellow weather warnings came as the Environment Agency said river flooding in parts of Exmoor was not just likely, but expected.

The agency said on Saturday evening the water level at Beggearn Huish in the Washford River was already nearly two inches above the point where properties could be flooded and it was continuing to rise.

A spokesperson said those most at risk were riverside properties from Kingsbridge to Lower Roadwater, including New Mill, Langridge Mills, and upper and lower Roadwater.

The spokesperson said: “We are monitoring rainfall and river levels closely and field teams are clearing debris screens and checking rivers for blockages.

“Act on your flood plan if you have one, and check that any flood resistance and resilience equipment you may have is operational.”

The Met Office warnings for heavy rainfall at the start of the week mean the area will have seen six out of eight days where people have been advised to take care in exceptional weather.

The latest warning covers from 6 pm on Monday to 2 pm on Tuesday.

It means there is a small chance of homes and businesses becoming flooded, causing damage to some buildings, and delays or cancellations to train and bus services.

Spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures, and there was a risk of some communities becoming cut off by flooded roads.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, will affect South West England from Monday evening, through Tuesday morning before clearing to heavy showers later in the day.

“Rainfall totals are expected to reach 20 to 30 mm widely, with 50 to 80 mm likely across higher ground, especially Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Brecon Beacons.

“With wet conditions prior to this period, the rain will fall onto saturated ground, accentuating flooding impacts in places.

“Strong southeasterly winds are also likely.”

The spokesperson said anybody whose property was at risk of flooding should think about preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.

They said: “Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

“People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance.

“It is easy to do, consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack, and other essential items.

“Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly.

“When a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”

Other rivers where the Environment Agency said there was also risk of flooding include:

The Doniford Stream was expected to cause flooding of low lying land on Sunday and was just two inches lower than the threshold where properties were likely to be flooded.

Areas most at risk were around Sampford Brett Bridge on the A358 and Sampford Mill Farm.

The Environment Agency spokesperson said: “We expect the Doniford Stream to peak close to the flood warning theshold before dropping back down.

“A further band of rain is expected to arrive in the early hours of Sunday morning and river levels are forecast to rise and remain high throughout day.

“Flooding to low lying land and roads close to the rivers is likely.

“Higher rainfall totals are forecast for Monday evening, through Tuesday and further flood alerts and warnings are possible.

“The main areas of concern are Dulverton, Brushford, Winsford, Exton, and Exford.

“Take care and avoid walking, cycling, or driving through flood water.

“Remain aware of local water levels and weather conditions and do not put yourself or others at risk.”