Ian Withers, EA area director for Wessex, said: “The return of heavy rain has benefited the environment after a very dry period.

“But there is no guarantee that sustained rainfall will continue. We still need a wet winter to prevent the water situation from deteriorating again.

“The risk of flooding remains even during a drought. Stay alert, follow flood warning guidance and be ready to deploy any personal property protection,” he added.

Reservoir levels for Wessex Water and Bristol Water, as of 15 December, were 94% and 77%, respectively.