WILTSHIRE Council is urging residents in the south of the county to review their flood risk and take immediate action as Environment Agency warnings remain in place across large areas.

Persistent rainfall since the start of the year has left rivers and groundwater levels significantly elevated.

The south of Wiltshire is being hit hardest, with nearly all groundwater monitoring stations from Salisbury Plain down to the city currently under Environment Agency flood warnings.

These warnings mean flooding is expected and residents should act now.

Salisbury River Park continues to protect more than 350 homes from river flooding, but around 100 properties near Salisbury Cathedral remain at risk due to rising groundwater levels.

The council is advising anyone in an affected area to move valuables, pets and essential items to a safe place and to deploy any flood protection equipment they have.

However, it reiterated that it does not provide sandbags, adding that protecting property is the responsibility of homeowners.

Information on where to buy sandbags and other protective measures is available on the council’s website.

Cabinet member for flooding Cllr Martin Smith said water levels were continuing to rise and further rainfall could increase the risk of both river and groundwater flooding.

“Groundwater is often slow to rise but it can linger for several weeks, so people in areas that may be affected should take action now—do not wait until it is too late,” he said.

The council is encouraging all residents to sign up for Environment Agency flood alerts, make a flood plan and ensure they know what to do if flooding occurs.

Flooding incidents or weather-related emergencies can be reported through the MyWilts app or website.