The Environmental Agency in the UK is advising the public to be prepared for potential flooding risks, emphasizing the importance of not underestimating the dangers despite the recent dry weather. This alert follows the recent impact of Storm Amy, which brought strong winds exceeding 81mph to parts of Scotland.
Caroline Douglass, Executive Director for Flood and Coastal Risk Management, highlighted the effects of climate change, emphasizing the agency’s efforts to help communities cope with extreme weather and rising sea levels. She urged individuals and businesses to take proactive steps such as checking their flood risk, signing up for flood warnings, and creating a flood plan to mitigate the impact of flooding on homes and communities.
To enhance preparedness for future floods, the Environmental Agency recommended two key actions. Firstly, residents are encouraged to register for flood warnings specific to their location, covering river overflow, coastal flooding, or groundwater issues. While not yet available nationwide, residents in England, Scotland, and Wales can sign up for alerts through designated platforms.
Additionally, Brits were advised to develop a comprehensive flood plan detailing necessary actions during and after a flood. This includes preparing a flood kit with essential items like documents, clothing, water, and medicines, as well as considering arrangements for pets and important contacts. Being informed about home insurance details in advance can also facilitate a quicker response to potential damage.
As part of the ongoing Flood Action Week initiative, Kelly Ostler-Coyle, Director of Corporate Affairs at Flood Re, stressed the importance of assessing personal flood risk and taking proactive measures to minimize damage and ensure safety. The advice comes amidst a rise in flood events in the UK attributed to climate change, with significant investments being made to bolster national resilience through improved flood defences.
Looking ahead, preparations for the upcoming winter include the deployment of mobile pumps and temporary flood barriers across England to manage potential flooding incidents effectively. Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Will Lang, underlined the importance of staying vigilant despite forecasts indicating normal to drier conditions, emphasizing the possibility of intense rainfall in certain regions and the need for ongoing preparedness.
Overall, the call to action aims to empower individuals and communities to be proactive in safeguarding against the impacts of flooding and adapting to changing weather patterns.