Flash Flooding – are you prepared to get wet – very wet?

Flash Flooding – are you prepared to get wet – very wet?

Did you know that flooding is the most common natural hazard in the UK? Porlock is at risk of ‘Flash’ flooding, water rising exceptionally quickly in response to very heavy rainfall. Flash flooding is rare but can be very dangerous.

Across Somerset and Devon’s north coast there are many communities where this type of flooding could happen and has happened. Climate change is increasing the likelihood of extreme weather events such as flash flooding happening. Most major flash floods occur in places where there hasn’t been a big flood in living memory – Porlock was last hit about 75 years ago.

Flash floods often occur in the summer and can happen so quickly that a warning isn’t able to be issued, so it’s important that you know what to do and how to stay safe.

Know the signs

Flash flooding can happen suddenly with little warning. Some of the signs to look out for are:

 very heavy rain, often from thunderstorms

 severe weather reports and warnings

If you can do so safely, take a look in your local stream for:

 rising water levels

 dark water that is moving with great force

 debris

Staying safe

Flash flooding can be very unexpected and very fast. You may need to act:

 quickly

 before a warning is given

 before the emergency services get to you

To make yourself safer during flash flooding:

 if it is safe, move to higher ground or the upper floor (storey) of a building

 do not walk or drive through the flood water

 do what the emergency services tell you

 call 999 if you are trapped or need emergency help

Shallow flood water (around 15cm or 6 inches) that does not look dangerous can knock a person over or conceal hazards. It only takes around 60cm (2 feet) of water to carry away a vehicle of any size.

Do not use flimsy or temporary structures – like a tent or a caravan – for shelter during flooding.

What can you do now?

 All of Porlock is at risk of either being flooded or being isolated by flooding. Sign up for flood warnings. There are step-by-step instructions on Porlock Parish Council’s website.

 Register to the Met Office’s Severe Weather Warning Service

 Check the Environment Agency’s 5-day Flood Forecast

Finally, think about what you will do if there is a flood.

Thinking it through now will save you precious time if it does ever happen.