Flooding
Flooding can happen without warning. It occurs from a variety of different weather events. Heavy rainfall and melting snow and ice can cause flooding.
Dorset is subject to 3 main types of flooding:
- Tidal and coastal flooding
- Rivers (fluvial)
- Surface water
- Groundwater
www.gov.uk/government/collections/flooding-health-guidance-and-advice
Steps to prepare for and during a flood
If you live in an area that has a risk of flooding, be prepared in advance:
- Check whether your property is within a flood risk area.
- You may be able to register for the Environment Agency’s free flood warnings service, via telephone, text or email
- Listen to your local radio for updates
- Have sufficient insurance for your property
- Sign up for flood warnings
Visit the websites below for further information and advice:
www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings
Impact
- Risk to the lives of people and animals
- Damage to properties, businesses, roads, agricultural land
- Pollution of environment
- Long term effects to tourism, business and agriculture
Consequences
- Disruption to electricity and water supplies
- Properties being flooded
- Residents being evacuated from their homes
- Health problems
- Access and egress routes are compromised
Risk Rating: High and Very High
(depending on the risks: Fluvial Flooding, Coastal Flood, Surface Water Flooding)

