What actions can you take?

Unlike river flooding, groundwater flooding can persist for weeks or even months as water slowly drains into the chalk and limestone aquifers beneath the ground causing the water table to rise.

• Think and prepare now for what you’ll do if flooding occurs where you live, don’t wait until flooding happens
• If you have a personal flood plan you should put it into action
• Move valuables from basements and cellars
• If you have a pump, ensure it is serviced and working effectively
• Residents with septic tanks are advised to eliminate all non-essential water use and flush toilets as little as possible until the ground is no longer flooded.
• Keep drains and gullies around your property free of debris
• You may need to improve surface water drainage and/or install and assess sump pumping arrangements
• If you own part of the riverbank you should keep the banks and bed of the river clear of debris (Find out more: gov.uk/guidance/owning-a-watercourse)
• We are encouraging parishes at risk to develop a Community flood plan, identifying local issues and working with the different agencies to prepare and respond to flooding