What to do in a groundwater flood

If you are not covered by the Environment Agency's groundwater flood alerts but think you may be at risk, you should prepare for groundwater flooding after long periods of heavy and persistent rain.

To help you, we’ve put together this short guide.

Remember, if flooding is posing a risk to life, you must call 999.

Before a groundwater flood

  • Ensure you know what to do before and during a flood. Have all the necessary contact details and important documents in one place.

    Fill in the Government's template flood plan and print it out.

  • Having a grab bag ensures you have all the important items you need in one place.

    The National Flood Forum has a useful page with recommendations of what to pack in your emergency flood kit.

  • You’ll need to turn off the utilities if you leave your home during a flood, or if water comes in.

    You'll usually find:

    • your water stop tap (also called a 'stopcock'), inside your home where your water supply comes in, or outside, near to your property's boundary under a cover

    • your gas shut-off valve next to your gas meter

    • your mains electricity cut off on your fuse board, with a big on and off switch

  • Find out what support is available in your local area before, during and after a flood:

    • flood action groups  - volunteers who work with local councils and organisations to reduce flood risks and represent local people

    • community flood wardens - volunteers who monitor a local area and tell residents when flooding is likely to happen

    • community hubs – where you can find food, clothing, shelter and advice during a flood

    To find contact details of available support in your area visit:

  • Ask your local council if you can get extra help during a flood.Citizens Advice can help ensure you’ll get support if your energy supply is affected. Ask Floodline for advice, or to get flood warnings sent to a friend or relative on your behalf.

    Floodline
    Telephone: 0345 988 1188
    Textphone: 0345 602 6340
    24-hour service
    Find out about call charges

During a groundwater flood

During a flood, Fire and Rescue services will support you, prioritising emergencies. Local voluntary organisations may also be available to help, but it will depend on provision in your area.  That’s why it’s important to be prepared and know your local contacts.

Call 999 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.

Report groundwater flooding to your local council 

    • Ensure all electricity, gas and water supplies are shut off

    • move your family, vehicles, pets and important items to safety, for example upstairs or to higher ground

    • if you have them, use flood protection products, for example toilet bungs or air brick covers

    • follow advice from your local council or the emergency services - you may be asked to evacuate

  • If you experience sewer flooding, contact your water company. They should be able to support and arrange clean-ups where required.

  • You can ask your local fire and rescue for help pumping out water and getting any permits you need. They might charge a fee for this. Remember that Fire and Rescue services must prioritise emergency situations.

    If you want to pump the water into:

  • Flood water may contain sewage and hide rubbish, wreckage, uneven roads and pavements or broken drain and manhole covers. Just 30cm of flood water can move your car. Before you set off:

After a groundwater flood

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