The latest advice on flooding in Midlands
For the latest news on flooding in the Midlands click here. To get the latest on flood alerts across the region see the Environment Agency website.
What to do in the event of a flood
The Environment Agency says you should be prepared to act quickly and get yourself to safety in a flooding emergency, to put the safety of people first and listen to advice from the Police and the Emergency Services.
The Agency urges people to take the following precautions in the event of a flooding emergency:
Tune into your local radio station on a battery or wind-up radio.Switch off your electricity / gas supplies.If you have a flood plan, put it into action. Click here to find out how to do this.Move important items to safety.If there is time, fit any flood protection products you might have such asFlood boards, airbrick covers, sandbags or alternative barriers, toilet bungs (only needed for downstairs toilets), any other flood product.If you require sandbags in an emergency you should contact your local authority.You can buy bags and sand from DIY stores and local builders merchants if you wish to prepare.What is localised flooding?
Also known as 'surface water flooding'. This usually happens where drainage systems are unable to cope with heavy spells of rainfall. The Environment Agency cannot give you a direct warning for this type of flooding.
Instead they forecast where it might be a problem in certain counties and put a daily flood risk forecast on the Environment Agency website.
You can also find out about the possibility of 'surface water' flooding in your area by checking local weather forecasts.
Check if your area is affected by flooding on the Environment Agency website.
What does a flood alert mean?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.
What does a flood warning mean?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.
Flood warnings: How to stay informedEnter your postcode here to check if you are at risk of flooding: Environment AgencyFollow the Environment Agency on Twitter for regular updates on weather changes.
Sign up to FloodAlerts for flood warnings direct to your Facebook news feed.Sign up to Flood Warnings Direct for free flood warnings direct to your phone and email.What to do if it does flood.