Check the current status of flood warnings and severe weather warnings in your area.

  Check flood warnings Opens in a new window

  Check severe weather warnings Opens in a new window 

You can also phone floodline on 0345 988 11 88 or tune into local radio (105.5FM) for the latest information.

Protect what you can without putting yourself at risk

  • Move vehicles, valuables, sentimental items and important documents to safety/higher ground.
  • Plug sinks/baths or low level shower trays and weigh them down to prevent backflow.
  • If you do not have non-return valves fitted, plug water inlet pipes with towels or cloths and disconnect any equipment that uses water and plug or seal if possible to prevent water entering your home (e.g. washing machine and dishwasher).
  • Ensure sandbags or flood boards, airbrick covers and other flood protection products are in place.
  • Do as much as you can in daylight. It will be much harder at night, particularly if the electricity fails.

Staying safe during a flood

  • Call 999 if you are in danger.
  • Check if your neighbours need help.
  • Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if safe to do so. DO NOT touch sources of electricity when standing in flood water.
  • Move your family and pets upstairs, or to a high place with a means of escape.
  • In the case of flash flooding, evacuate basement flats immediately and seek higher ground.
  • Don’t walk along riverbanks or across bridges or other potentially dangerous structures.
  • Avoid walking through deep or fast flowing flood water - fast flowing water can knock you off your feet and there may be hazards that you can’t see.
  • Stay away from large waves - you can be hit by debris or dragged out to sea
  • Drive carefully - aquaplaning is more likely in shallow flood water and bow waves can flood properties.
  • Don’t drive through flood water if you don’t know how deep it is - approx. 2ft of water can float your car.
  • Don’t drive down closed roads. Most flood related deaths occur inside a vehicle.
  • If your car stalls in floodwater do not attempt to recover it - leave it and move to safer ground.
  • Keep children and vulnerable people away from flood water.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly if you touch flood water as it may be contaminated.

If you have to evacuate

  • Cooperate with the emergency services if they ask you to evacuate during flooding.
  • If required, emergency shelter will be provided for those who are unable to stay with family or friends or make alternative arrangements.
  • If you have sufficient time pack an emergency grab bag. A grab bag should contain:
    • baby care items,
    • essential medication,
    • mobile phone and charger
    • emergency cash and credit cards
    • insurance and other important documents
  • Other items for consideration include a torch, radio, camera, batteries, first aid kit, wash kit, warm clothes, blankets and bottled water.

Further guidance