County Council Says Be Aware of the Flood Risk

Published on: 7 Nov, 2022
Updated on: 8 Nov, 2022

Be prepared for flooding is the message being given to Surrey residents who live near rivers or other watercourses, or who can be impacted by surface water or groundwater flooding.

Severe winter weather increases the risk of flooding and Surrey County Council has sent out its warning during Flood Action Week. The ground has been saturated by recent heavy rain but more is forecast next week.

And it is timely. There are 13 flood alerts currently in place in the county including one for the Upper River Wey which includes Godalming and Guildford.

Flood Alert – From the SCC website

So the message from SCC is “make sure you’re aware of your home’s flood risk and getting prepared in case of flooding is especially important. Ensuring any watercourses you’re responsible for are kept running freely could also help protect your home and those around you.”

Map showing the areas around the Upper River Wey at risk of flooding. Source SCC

A county council spokesperson said “Flooding risk is increasing due to climate change, and it’s important to help communities to become more resilient to extreme weather and rising sea levels. Taking steps to prepare for flooding can reduce the costs of damage to a home by around 40 per cent, as well as reducing the impact on the wellbeing of victims.”

Check the risk and be prepared

Residents are advised to check their home’s flood risk by visiting check long-term flood risk.gov.uk or calling the Floodline on 0345 988 1188. There is also the opportunity to register for flood alerts and warnings.

If there is a risk of flooding, there’s advice on how to be prepared at Flooding advice – Surrey County Council (surreycc.gov.uk)

If you, or someone you know, is vulnerable, requires additional assistance or has additional communication needs then you can sign up to the Priority Services Register by contacting your utility providers. It is free and can help you or a loved one to stay safe, warm and independent at home.

Minimise the chances of flooding

Residents who own land next to watercourses like ditches, streams or brooks are ‘riparian landowners’ – this means that they are responsible for keeping these watercourses clear, even though they may seem to be beyond their boundary or run through a piped section.

Over the autumn, leaves and branches fall and silt builds up. Keeping ditches and other watercourses clear could help prevent homes from flooding later in the winter.

Visit Flooding advice – Surrey County Council (surreycc.gov.uk) for more information.