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

www.environment-agency.gov.uk

www.floodforum.org.uk

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