Rapid Response Catchment Flooding

Flooding is the most common and widespread natural hazard in the UK.  One type of flooding that can occur is flooding from river levels or surface water rising exceptionally quickly in response to very heavy rainfall, known as ‘flash flooding’.  These types of events are rare but can be very dangerous.

Across Wessex there are many communities where this type of flooding could happen.  Most major flash floods occur in places where it hasn’t happened in living memory, so it’s vital that even if there hasn’t been flooding in your community for a long time, you know what to do and how to stay safe.

What can you do now?

• Although the Environment Agency won’t always be able to issue a flood warning in time, it’s worth checking if you’re at risk and signing up to receive a flood warning if one is available for your area: Sign up for flood warnings - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
•  Register to the Met Office’s Severe Weather Warning Service: Weather warnings guide - Met Office
• Check the Environment Agency’s 5-day Flood Forecast: Check for flooding in England - GOV.UK (check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk)
• Check if your insurance covers flooding
• Know how to turn off gas, electricity and water supplies.

You can download the Charmouth Flood Action Guide [PDF] as well as the Recovery Guide [PDF].