Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, told BBC Radio Somerset some of his constituents have sandbags across their doors and have wrapped their furniture in bags so they float.

“The situation remains perilous for many people.

“Isn’t it time we have permanent pumping stations ready to roll with a flick of a switch, rather than these trigger points being waited for and losing precious days.

“That would be a big, expensive job but it would be an investment that would save money in the long run,” he added.

A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said they have made almost £78bn available to England’s councils this year.

“We will continue working with local authorities in the south-west where emergencies occur, and will consider requests where financial support might be needed,” they added.