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Communities face flash flooding after heavy rain

Staff at Sainsburys in Chard, Somerset, had to sweep water out of the doors on Sunday

Heavy rain has caused flash flooding and brought significant disruption to communities, businesses and travel in parts of south Somerset.

One of the area's main routes, the A303, is closed between Horton Cross and Crewkerne because of flooding.

Ilminster has been badly affected, with landslips and sections of road breaking up causing routes in and out of the town to become blocked.

Major flooding has also been seen in South Petherton, Lopen and Hinton St George - all in the south of the county.

The entrance to Chard Guildhall in Somerset awash with water.
Chard's Guildhall has also suffered from the flood water

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has been inundated with calls and all crews in the area are said to be out dealing with incidents.

A spokesperson said its teams were prioritising people facing life-threatening emergencies.

Some people are getting stuck in vehicles as they try to drive through floodwater, the advice from emergency services is to stay at home.

On Sunday afternoon, staff at Sainsbury's in Chard were seen sweeping floodwater out of the doors.

Herne View Primary in Illminster will be closed on Monday because both entrances are flooded and staff cannot get in.

Tracey Trotter A flooded road seen from the upper window of a house, with cars submerged up the upper part of their wheels.Tracey Trotter
Flooding was widespread in Chard on Sunday afternoon
A car stuck on in flood water on a completely flooded lane
A car became stranded on the A356 near Crewkerne on Sunday evening
Mud covered street in the town of Ilminster. The floodwater has mostly, but not totally, receded.
Flooding in Ilminster has left a thick layer of mud behind in the town centre
Flooded car park behind a large red brick building.
Sainsburys in Chard was flooded on Sunday

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