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Flooding

Flood Warning System

The Environment Agency's Floodline Warnings Direct service provides warnings about flooding from rivers and the sea.

There are three types of warning - flood alert, flood warning and severe flood warning, as shown below.


Warning	Description
	A Flood Alert will be used to warn people of the possibility of flooding and encourage them to be alert, stay vigilant and make early preparations for flooding. This will replace the previously issued Flood Watches and will have a new definition, icon and accompanying advice. A Flood Alert will be issued earlier than a Flood Warning, to give customers advance notice that flooding is possible.
	A Flood Warning will be used to warn people of expected flooding and encourage them to take action to protect themselves and their property.
	A Severe Flood Warning will be used when there is a significant risk to life or significant disruption to communities and we need to encourage customers to take action to protect themselves and follow the advice of the emergency services.

To check if you are at risk from flooding or to register for the free Floodline Warnings Direct service, please call Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit the Environment Agency website using the external links section below. You can also request or download a personal flood plan template, find general advice and information about flooding.

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Flood Advice

Going outside

Flood water can be dangerous so avoid driving and walking through it where possible especially if it is flowing water or if you can’t see how deep it is. Be aware that manhole covers can be lifted by flood water so only travel through flood water as a last resort. Keep children and vulnerable people away from the flood water and wash your hands if you touch it.

Floods and your home

The Environment Agency has some practical flooding advice to help you ensure the safety of your home and family, focusing on the before, during and after stages of flooding.

For advice on what to do if your home is affected by flooding see the Floods and your Home page.

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Flooded Drains and Gullies

Drainage systems are designed to provide the efficient removal of water from the surface of the highway to provide a safe passage for pedestrians and vehicles.

Problems can occur even when drainage provisions are clean and well maintained. Flooded and waterlogged roads result when the amount of water arriving on the road is greater than the capacity of the drainage facilities that take it away.