The fire crews' machine with water-pumping power

Military planners have been sent to Somerset to decide how they can help to prevent further flooding, with more heavy rain expected over the weekend.

Officials say specialist military vehicles could be in action by the end of the day, helping to take supplies to dozens of homes which have been cut off for weeks.

Meanwhile Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service have enlisted the help of high volume pumps across the Somerset Levels.

The service's Matt Mason told the BBC's Robert Hall that they can pump nearly 7,000 litres of water in one minute over a kilometer.