Flood warnings and what to do when flooding is imminent
Flood warnings and rising water levels
The Environment Agency's flood warning codes are:
Flood Watch
Flooding of low-lying land and roads is expected. Be aware! Be prepared! Watch out!
Flood Warning
Flooding of homes and businesses is expected. Act now!
Severe Flood Warning
Severe flooding is expected. There is extreme danger to life and property. Act now!
All Clear
There are no Flood Watches or Flood Warnings in
force in the area. Flood water levels are receding. Check all is safe
to return. Seek advice.
The Environment Agency's advice in Flood Watch areas includes:
- Call the Environment Agency's Floodline 0845 9881188 for more information
- Listen out for information on local radio and TV weather and news bulletins
The Environment Agency's advice in Flood Warning areas includes:
- Find out where family members are and check on neighbours
- Check where to turn off gas and electricity supplies in the event of a flood
- Get together useful items such as a torch and a battery powered radio
- Move vehicles, food, pets, valuables and other items to safety
- Put sandbags and/or floodboards in place where possible
Additional advice to people in areas with a Severe Flood Warning includes:
- Be prepared to evacuate your home
- Do heed the advice of emergency services if you are asked to leave - it could be dangerous to stay
- Be prepared for loss of electricity, gas and water supplies, and telephone services
- Have any essential medication on hand - you may be away from home for a while
- Have warm clothes and wellington boots at the ready
- Get together some food supplies and a thermos
Flood warnings are available online
The Environment Agency website provides at-a-glance information on the number and type of flood warnings in force across England and Wales. The information is updated every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The site is very easy to use. In addition to the standard summaries, users can search by postcode, town or river. The site is linked to our Floodline pages so people can find out more about the flood warning service and how to prepare for a flood.
See www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodwarnings
If the water starts to rise
In most cases it is quite safe to remain in your property and move valuables upstairs.
However, if you are told by the Emergency Services to evacuate this will be for a good reason and you should do so without delay. In these circumstances the Council will arrange emergency rest centre accommodation for you in pre-arranged locations, such as a community hall or sports centre.
Page owner: Aaron Carter. Last updated: 14/12/2010 14:42