Weather and environment
Flood preparation across the four UK nations
Flood risk and warning services differ across the four nations. Check the service for where you are, plan an escape route and protect medicines, documents, mobility and pets.
Last checked: 25 August 2026 How we use official sources
Use the right warning service
- England: check current flooding and register for Environment Agency flood warnings.
- Scotland: use SEPA flooding information and Floodline.
- Wales: use Natural Resources Wales flood information and warning registration.
- Northern Ireland: use NI Direct flood-risk and preparation guidance.
Prepare your household and property
- Know where and how to turn off gas, electricity and water, but do so only when safe.
- Move medicines, documents, valuables, vehicles and pet supplies to a safer level when a warning gives time.
- Keep a grab bag ready and plan for children, disabled people, carers and animals.
- Check insurance and photograph property and possessions before a flood.
- Plan two routes to higher ground and identify a safe place to stay.
During and after flooding
- Do not touch electrical switches while standing in water.
- Treat flood water as contaminated because it may contain sewage, debris and uncovered drains.
- Return only when authorities say it is safe and use official cleanup advice.
- Contact your local council if your home is uninhabitable and you need emergency accommodation.
Evidence and official services
Sources behind this guidance
Open the official page for current detail, live services and local instructions. This page was checked on 25 August 2026.
- FloodingGOV.UK Prepare
- Check for flooding in EnglandEnvironment Agency
- Flooding and FloodlineSEPA
- FloodingNatural Resources Wales
- Check the risk of floodingNI Direct