Somerset Council has had to close the A361 today (Friday 20 February), after water has again covered the surface of the road.

The Council was able to reopen the road yesterday after a 3-week closure as it was safe to do, but as it has stressed, due to the continued wet weather and saturated ground it will have to act quickly to close it if there is further flooding covering the surface.

The current flooding situation in Somerset is no longer being treated as a Major Incident with conditions improving and the clean-up and recovery underway.

Somerset Council, the Environment Agency (EA), emergency services, health and other partners have been working together since the end of January to respond to flooding following Storm Chandra.

Somerset Council is encouraging families across the county to make World Book Day easier, greener and more affordable thanks to a new Costume Swap scheme launching in local libraries.

Following the success of the Winter Coat Exchange, Somerset Libraries are looking for donations for the recently launched special World Book Day Costume Swap ahead of Thursday 5 March.

Taunton Library has marked a major milestone, celebrating 30 years since opening its doors on Paul Street, with staff, residents and partners coming together to reflect on three decades of learning, connection and community spirit.

To celebrate the milestone, Councillor Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council (and a former Taunton Library employee) and the Mayor of Taunton, Councillor Martin Straus joined library staff, partners and community members to reflect on the past, present and future of this much-loved local service.

Somerset Council will be undertaking vital drainage works on the A39 Quantock Road, Bridgwater, from Monday 23 February to Friday 27 February.

The works are to increase capacity of the drainage at this location and help to drain surface water on the carriageway, making it safer for drivers.

2-way temporary lights will be in place while the work takes place across the 30-metre stretch of road.

Road users are advised of upcoming essential drainage works on the M5 northbound between Junctions 26 and 27, being carried out by National Highways. Full overnight closures will be in place on 22 February (9pm to 6am) and 21 March (9pm to 6am). In addition, hard shoulder and Lane 1 closures with a 50mph speed limit will operate northbound between J27 and J26 from 23 February to 21 March.

During full closures, a signed diversion via the A38 will be in place between Junctions 27 and 26. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for journeys, follow diversion signs rather than satnavs, and plan travel in advance. Further updates and live travel information are available via National Highways.