Flood
Rivers, sea or heavy rain are flooding, or about to flood, streets and homes.
Warning signs
- Official flood warning or severe flood warning
- Water rising fast in streams, drains or streets
- Prolonged heavy rain or storm surge forecast
Stay or go
Leave at once if officials tell you to. If trapped, go to the highest floor but never into a closed attic where water can trap you.
Do now
- Never walk, swim or drive through floodwater; 15 cm (6 in) of moving water can knock you down.
- Move people, pets and key possessions upstairs or to higher ground.
- Turn off gas, electricity and water only if safe; never touch switches while standing in water.
- Follow official instructions and do not drive around barricades. (comms-6)
- Call emergency services if anyone is in immediate danger.
Then
- Stay off bridges over fast water; they can wash out without warning.
- Keep away from downed power lines, which can electrify water.
- Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
- Wear heavy gloves, boots and protective clothing to clean up; floodwater may be contaminated.
- Run generators only outdoors and away from windows. (continuity-9)
Related steps
Sources
- Floods. Ready.gov (FEMA), accessed 2026-11
- What to do before or during a flood. GOV.UK (UK government), accessed 2026-11