Flood Warning and Alert Descriptions

Flood warnings and alerts are divided into three categories. In increasing level of severity, these are:

Flood Alert

What it means

Flooding is possible. Be prepared.

When it's used

Two hours to two days in advance of flooding.

What to do

• Be prepared to act on your flood plan.
• Prepare a flood kit of essential items.
• Monitor local water levels and the flood forecast on our website.

Flood Warning

What it means

Flooding is expected. Immediate action required.

When it's used

Half an hour to one day in advance of flooding.

What to do

• Move family, pets and valuables to a safe place.
• Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if safe to do so.
• Put flood protection equipment in place.

Severe Flood Warning

What it means

Severe flooding. Danger to life.

When it's used

When flooding poses a significant threat to life.

What to do

• Stay in a safe place with a means of escape.
• Be ready should you need to evacuate from your home.
• Co-operate with the emergency services.
• Call 999 if you are in immediate danger.