Unsettled weather continues in the South West with further bands of heavy rain and strong winds possibly leading to further flooding over the next four days, the Environment Agency warned today.

Heavy rain falling on already saturated ground could lead to river flooding, and strong winds could worsen surface water flooding, as wind-blown leaves and debris block water drainage. It is possible that up to 60 mm could fall on top of the rain that has fallen over the last few days.

But even smaller amounts of rain could increase the risk of flooding.

'The current unsettled spell of weather is set to continue up to Sunday with further spells of heavy rain expected across the South West over the next four days. Strong winds combined with heavy rain is expected on Thursday through to Friday morning. We urge everyone to keep up to date with forecasts and warnings and be prepared for what the weather will bring,' said Kevin Ward for the Environment Agency.

'With ground already saturated, we urge people to be extra vigilant and make sure they take steps to protect themselves and homes from the risk of flooding.

'People need to be extra careful on the roads and avoid driving through flood water and stay away from swollen rivers. Updates are available on our website and people can sign up to our free flood warning system on the Environment Agency website.'

On Wednesday this week, 54 flood warnings and 54 flood alerts were issued by the Environment Agency.

Heavy rain today saw surface water flooding on several roads throughout the county, which caused travel disruption. As the weather system crossed the area overnight rainfall totals of up to 50 mm were recorded.

There has been some flooding of properties including four homes in Culmstock and one property in Walkhampton.

Environment Agency teams in the South West have been mobilised to check on flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels. These teams work around the clock to reduce the risk of flooding, and will be out in force over the coming days.

People living across in South West can keep up to date with the latest flood warnings on the Environment Agency website, or sign up to free flood warnings which are sent automatically via text, phone or email at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/38289.aspx">http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/38289.aspx.

The Environment Agency updates its flood guidance every 15 minutes on its website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31618.aspx">http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31618.aspx, and you can follow the Environment Agency on Twitter at @EnvAgencySW

Met Office weather forecasts and warnings can be found at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/">http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ and you can follow the Met Office on Twitter at @metoffice and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/metoffice">http://www.facebook.com/metoffice