MP Adam Dance leads action on flooding in Somerset following Storm Herminia

31 Jan 2025
A group of workers in high-visibility yellow jackets stand together on a wet pavement next to a large street-cleaning vehicle with 'Somerset' branding. Adam Dance wears a dark jacket and green wellington boots and is standing among them, while a driver leans out of the truck’s window. The background features historic buildings and a town street with cars parked along the road.

Yeovil MP Adam Dance has been at the forefront of efforts to support communities devastated by Storm Herminia, joining clean-up teams, assisting with sandbag deliveries, and working closely with local authorities to ensure those affected get the help they need.  

The storm brought widespread flooding to parts of South Somerset, hitting towns like Chard, Ilminster, and South Petherton particularly hard. Homes and businesses were left underwater, roads were cut off, and many residents faced significant disruption. In the aftermath, Adam Dance rolled up his sleeves to help with the response, working alongside Somerset Council teams in Chard and joining volunteers to distribute sandbags in South Petherton and other affected areas.  

Adam Dance MP said:

"Seeing the damage firsthand has been heartbreaking. Homes have been flooded, businesses have been left counting the cost, and entire communities have been cut off. But it has also been inspiring to see the way people have come together to help each other - whether it’s delivering sandbags, clearing roads, or providing shelter and support to those in need. I want to thank everyone who has stepped up during this difficult time."

Now, Adam is taking the fight to Westminster, tabling an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament to highlight the impact of the storm and call for urgent investment in flood prevention, co-signed by West Dorset MP, Edward Morello. The motion urges the Government to provide greater support for flood-hit communities and commit to long-term resilience measures, including improved drainage, better river management, and stronger emergency response planning.  

Adam Dance added: "Flooding isn’t a new issue for Somerset, but it’s getting worse. With climate change driving more extreme weather, we need real action to protect our communities. This means better flood defences, investment in prevention, and ensuring rural areas like ours aren’t forgotten when it comes to funding."

Alongside the EDM, Adam is working to bring together key stakeholders for a Flooding Forum. This will give local residents a platform to raise concerns, share their experiences, and help shape the response to future flooding events.  

“This is about more than just clearing up after storms—it’s about ensuring we are better prepared for the future. I will keep pushing in Parliament to make sure Somerset gets the support and investment it needs.”

Residents affected by flooding are encouraged to share their experiences by contacting Adam Dance MP at adam.dance.mp@parliament.uk

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