The government has urged people to check their flood risk on a new website amid warnings that Britain could be set for a winter of extreme weather.
Flood action online reveals the level of flood risk for any property in England, alongside tips on how to plan for flooding. The online tool also allows users to sign up for free flood warnings from the Environment Agency, and shows the latest weather alerts from the Met Office.
Taskforce to discuss UK preparedness
It comes as Number 10 looks to boost the nation's resilience to flooding ahead of potential extreme weather this autumn and winter, with a taskforce to meet this week to discuss the UK's preparedness.
Meteorologists have warned that this year's El Nino over the Pacific is set to be the strongest in living memory, and the knock-on effects will increase the risk of wet, stormy weather hitting the British Isles.
6.3 million properties at risk
Around 6.3 million homes and businesses in England are in flood risk areas, according to the Environment Agency. The government has previously announced investment of £4.2 billion into new and existing flood defences, which aims to support the country against severe weather in the coming years.
Floods minister Emma Hardy said: "Climate change means that extreme weather can switch quickly, but we’re more prepared than ever before for the challenges posed by floods.
"We are continuing to step up our defences against the weather, and encourage everyone to check their flood risk, prepare a flood plan, and follow warnings to protect their home and family," Ms Hardy said.
Flood Action Week campaign launched
The Environment Agency today launched its annual Flood Action Week campaign to encourage the public to prepare.
The agency’s director for floods, Caroline Douglass, said: "Every year, flooding threatens communities across England, and as we deal with the changing climate, it’s never been more important for people to understand what they can do to prepare.
"This Flood Action Week, our new flood website will make it easier than ever to access helpful guidance, while our ongoing investment and maintenance programme will ensure our flood defences continue to protect the areas that need them most.
"As we head into the winter, our teams are ready to respond around the clock, backed by hundreds of pumps and kilometres of temporary barriers, but we can all play our part in making a difference."
