The physical devastation that accompanies a flood is enormous. It is important to remember we must at all times be prepared to respond to the risk of flooding. Major flooding in Warwickshire is usually caused by:
- Flooding of major rivers and watercourses;
- Flash flooding, due to intense localised rainfall.
Flood warnings
The Environment Agency issues flood warnings to properties at risk of flooding from main rivers. Local Authorities, the Emergency Services, utilities and local radio stations are also informed when flooding is expected. Warnings are issued using the Flood Warnings Direct system, which can send a warning directly to your telephone, mobile, fax or pager. If you would like to register for the Flood Warnings Direct system please contact Floodline on 0845 988 1188. There are three types of flood warning which give clear guidance about what action people need to take.
Flood warning service(pdf, 456Kb)
Floodline quick dial codes (pdf, 133Kb)
Online flood warning service – updated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Met Office Severe Weather Warning Service – warnings of severe weather events
Protect your home from flooding
In order to improve response to such events within Warwickshire the Emergency Planning Unit have developed a pack offering information, advice and contacts to assist the public during and after flooding.
Residents flood pack (pdf, 140Kb)
Sandbags
Sand bags can be useful in preventing flood damage or diverting water away from properties and are readily available from buildings merchants and other DIY superstores. Warwickshire County Council have distributed a number of unfilled sandbags to Parish Councils in the region who are at risk from flooding. Requests must be made to them direct. For details of your local Parish and Town Council please look on the Parish and Town Councils Database.
How to use sandbags (pdf, 394Kb)
If you have any concerns about flooding in your area, please email flooding@warwickshire.gov.uk.
Flooding advice
The Environment Agency has information about the risk of flooding in your area and how to protect your property from flooding.
The National Flood Forum is a community-based network set up by people who have been through the experience of flooding and suffered the distress, losses and frustration that follow.
Cleaning Up After A Flood - Health advice from the Health Protection Agency on cleaning up after a flood.
Preparing for a flood (pdf, 932Kb – Practical advice on what to do to protect you and your property.
During a flood (pdf, 592Kb) – What should you do during a flood, or when you first hear that it’s about to happen? Look through our check list now, so you’ll be prepared if the worst happens.
After a flood (pdf, 464Kb) – How to get your home back to normal.
Where to start once the flood water has gone – electrical (pdf, 469Kb)
Damage limitation (pdf, 813Kb) – How to make your home flood resistant.
Flooding advice from the Department of Work and Pensions (pdf, 31Kb)
Flood maps
Environment Agency – flood map - The Environment Agency hold up to date flood maps for the whole of the UK.
Environment Agency – live flood warning map - The Environment Agency has a live flood warning map, updated with flood alerts and warnings,
