SEVERE flood warnings have been issued across the South West as heavy rain continues to pour down after fresh amber weather warnings from the Met Office.

The Environment Agency (EA) has warned of a ‘risk to life’ in some parts of the region, though North Somerset seems to have escaped the worst of the impact.

EA has deployed temporary defences along the Somerset Levels to protect homes, while large tides are predicted along the coastline.

North Somerset is currently on ‘flood alert’, one of 217 in place across the country.

Paul Mustow, flood risk manager at the Environment Agency, said: “With no let up of this severe weather, the Environment Agency continues to have teams out on the ground who are working around the clock to protect homes and communities. Over 160,000 properties have been protected over the past five days.

“We’re preparing for yet more heavy rain into the weekend, which is falling on already saturated ground following the wettest January on record.

“We are also prepared for the risks of more coastal flooding.

“We urge people to stay safe and not to walk or drive through flood water which can be dangerous and to take care near coastal paths and promenades for fear of being swept away.”

This morning (Thurs) the Met Office issued amber weather warnings for rain in North Somerset.

If you see flooding in the area, upload your photos to weston.iwitness24.co.uk.