The Environment Agency plays an important role in warning people about the risk of flooding, and in reducing the likelihood of flooding from rivers.

On the Environment Agency website you can find information on how to prepare for flooding and what action to take, current flood warnings, managing flood risk and much more.

Floodline

For information about flood warnings in force in your area, call the Environment Agency Floodline on 0845 988 1188 and, when prompted, enter the quick-dial number for the section of river that affects you.

Be prepared

Although you cannot prevent flooding you can prepare for it.

Waterwise have some helpful tips for those experiencing flooding.

An advice leaflet, Be Prepared for Flooding Leaflet 1.54Mb PDF, from the Environment Agency and other Kent partners gives information and advice about flooding, how to prepare and what to do in an emergency.

Zurich Insurance also have an information leaflet, Flood Guidance Leaflet 3.4Mb PDF which contains useful information and guidance.

The Environment Agency has produced a helpful check list of things you can do to be prepared.

• Keep a list of useful numbers to hand, for example, the Council, the emergency services, your insurance company and Floodline - 0845 988 1188
• Have a few sandbags or floorboards prepared to block doorways and airbricks
• Make up a flood kit, including a torch, blankets, waterproof clothing, wellingtons, a portable radio, first aid kit, rubber gloves and key personal documents. Keep it upstairs, if possible
• Talk about possible flooding with your family or those you live with. Consider writing a flood plan, and store these notes with your flood kit
• Make sure you know where to turn off your gas and electricity
• What about your pets? Where will you move them to if a flood is on the way?
• Think about your car. Where could you move it to in the event of a Flood Warning?
• Get into the habit of storing valuable or sentimental personal belongings upstairs or in a high place downstairs
• Think about medication. In the event of a flood, you'll still need to take it