New online flood forecasts and clearer warnings are part of improvements to the Environment Agency’s flood warning service.
Reporter KELLY SMALE visited the Thames Barrier to find out more.
THE Thames Barrier, which has been in operation since 1982, is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world protecting 125 square kilometres of London from flooding caused by tidal surges.
A further 195km of tidal walls and 36 other flood gates along the Thames also help protect the £200billion worth of assets in the capital.
The Environment Agency, which runs and maintains the barrier, has introduced new flood warning codes following recommendations made by the Pitt Review into the floods of summer 2007.
It will now provide a daily, three day flood forecast for England and Wales on its website as well as information about river and sea levels.
Homes and businesses can also sign up to the Environment Agency’s free flood warning service, Flood Warning Direct, to receive localised information by fax, phone, email or pager.
Thames Regional Director, Howard Davidson, said: “We urge everyone to check whether their property is at risk by visiting the Environment Agency’s website and taking steps to prepare, such as looking at ways to make properties more flood-proof.
“Our new online flood forecasts, along with clearer warnings, will better prepare people ahead of potential flooding, helping protect lives and property.”
Sign up to Flood Warning Direct by calling 0845 988 1188 or visiting environment-agency.gov.uk/flood
Properties at risk of flooding in the Thames region
Around 520,000 properties are at risk of flooding in the London area.
Over the last year the Environment Agency has issued 72 messages in London to let people know flooding is expected in their area.
Lewisham - 21,000 homes are at risk of flooding but only 544 properties are registered with Floodline Warnings Direct.
Greenwich - Only 614 properties are signed up to receive flood warnings despite 26,500 homes being at risk of flooding.
Bromley - 7,266 homes are at risk of flooding but only 511 properties are registered to receive flood warnings.
Bexley - 13,000 properties are at risk of flooding while only 151 homes have signed up to Floodline Warnings Direct.
What do the new codes mean?
What it means
Flooding is possible. Be prepared.
When it is used
Two hours to two days in advance of flooding.
What to do
Be prepared to act on your flood plan.
Prepare a flood kit of essential items.
Monitor local water levels and the flood forecast on the environment agency website.
What it means
Flooding is expected. Immediate action required.
When it is used
Half an hour to one day in advance of flooding.
What to do
Move family, pets and valuables to a safe place.
Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if safe to do so.
Put flood protection equipment in place.
What it means
Severe flooding. Danger to life.
When it is used
When flooding poses a significant threat to life.
What to do
Stay in a safe place with a means of escape.
Be ready should you need to evacuate from your home.
Co-operate with the emergency services. Call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
WARNINGS NO LONGER IN FORCE (no symbol)
What it means
No further flooding is currently expected in your area.
When it is used
When river or sea conditions begin to return to normal.
What to do
Be careful. Flood water may still be around for several days.
If you have been flooded ring your insurance company as soon as possible.
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