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Automatic flood warnings

Find out about automatic flood warnings and which households and businesses will receive them.

During February and March this year, we are writing to over 500,000 households and businesses that are in areas at risk from flooding from rivers or the sea.  If you have received a letter from us you will know that in the future you may receive advance warning of flooding.

Frequently asked questions about automatic flood warnings

Why do you want to send me flood warnings?

Your address is in a flood risk area.  This means that you may be covered by our flood warning service and could receive flood warnings to your telephone number.  You will then be able to take steps to prepare.

How did you get my telephone number?

We work with telephone companies who provide us with landline telephone numbers taken from the databases used for dealing with calls to the emergency services.  Using landline telephone numbers we can issue automatic flood warning messages directly.  We do not hold any personal information about you or your property and your number will only be used for issuing flood warning messages.

What will happen when I get a message?

When a flood warning is issued in your area, we intend to send a recorded message to your telephone number.  This message will tell you that flooding is expected in your area and what action you should take.  It will also give you our 24 hour Floodline service number 0845 988 1188 to call for more information.

Can I receive a warning through my mobile or by email?

You could receive a more flexible warning service by registering for Floodline Warnings Direct. This will allow you to choose whether you receive flood warning messages by phone, fax, sms text, pager or email.

Receiving flood warnings is only the first step in preparing for flooding. For more information and practical advice on what to do to protect yourself and your property follow the links below.

  • Cancel automatic flood warnings

    If you have received a letter informing you that you could receive flood warnings from us if flooding occurs and would like to cancel the service, find out how here.