Flooding
Risk depends on where you live. Flooding can cut off roads and utilities and take months to recover from.
How it can spread
- Roads close and homes or utilities are damaged
- You may need to leave home at short notice
- Clean-up and insurance claims can take a long time
Before
- Check your flood risk and sign up for free flood warnings.
- Know your route to higher ground and where your household will meet.
- Keep medicines, documents in a waterproof pouch, chargers and pet supplies easy to grab.
- If you have flood barriers or air brick covers, practise fitting them.
When a warning arrives
- Follow instructions from the emergency services and your council.
- Move people and pets to safety first. Move valuables upstairs only if there is time.
- Turn off gas, electricity and water only if you can do it without touching floodwater.
During
- Never walk, cycle or drive through floodwater. 30cm of moving water can float a car, and it can hide open drains.
- Keep children and pets away from floodwater, riverbanks and drains.
- Call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
After
- Do not go back in until told it is safe. Do not use electrics or gas appliances that got wet until checked.
- Photograph damage when it is safe and contact your insurer or landlord.
- Floodwater can be contaminated. Wear gloves and wash hands when cleaning up.
Official information
Checked against official guidance on 28 Oct 2026. In immediate danger, call 999.
Next: Storms and severe weather