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Severe Storms / Flooding

Severe storms can produce high winds, torrential rain, hailstones, lightning and flash floods.  They can cause structural damage, flooding to properties and power cuts.

It is your responsibility to protect your home from flooding.  In the event of a major flooding incident North Hertfordshire District Council will set up Reception Centres for those evacuated from their homes and assist with temporary accommodation (see Council Role in an Emergency).

Visit the Environment Agency Flood pages

The Environment Agency provides detailed advice on:

• Make a flood plan
• Prepare your property for flooding
• Flood Protection Products and Services
• After a flood

Find out the risk of flooding

Find out the chance of flooding in your area by using the Environment Agency online Flood Map via their flood pages

Get a Flood Warning

The Environment Agency provides a free flood warning service , that provides flood warnings by telephone, mobile, fax or pager.  If you think you are at risk of flooding contact Floodline to find out if you can register for the service on 0845 988 1188.  Check that any vulnerable neighbours or family members also receive flood warnings.

Know the New Flood Warning Codes

The Environment Agency has launched new flood warning codes , these are:

• Flood Alert
• Flood Warning
• Severe Flood Warning

Visit the Environment Agency flood pages and become aware of what each code means.

Prepare Your Home

• Clear gutters and downpipes to allow rainwater to drain away.
• Keep roofing material in good repair to help keep out water.
• Visit the Environment Agency Floodline pages to get detailed advice on preparing for a flood and what to do during and after a flood.
• Have your emergency kit available in case of powercuts / flooding or evacuation and include waterproof clothing and boots.
• Keep a list of useful contacts and copies of important documents e.g. insurance in a waterproof container.
• Locate the stop valves for your utility services in case you need to turn off your gas / electricity / water supplies.
• If your home is at risk of flooding buy some sandbags or flood boards to block doors and airbricks, the Environment Agency provides details of where to get Kitemark certified flood products.
• Keep items that are valuable or sentimental to you stored upstairs or in a high point downstairs.
• If a storm is forecast clear away items from outside your house that could be blown around and cause damage.
• If there is a thunderstorm unplug non-essential electrical items.
• Avoid using taps, sinks or telephones.

In your car:

• Avoid driving if possible.
• Do not drive through flood water.