Environment Agency raising flood risk awareness in Forest of Dean
Communities at risk of flash flooding are being advised on how to stay safe.
Environment Agency officers are visiting communities in the Forest of Dean to raise awareness of the risk of flash flooding and supporting residents to know what to do in the event of a flash flood.
Carole Hender, Flood Resilience Engagement Advisor for the Environment Agency in the West Midlands said: “Flash flooding is dangerous and can happen very quickly. The effects of flooding can be devastating and knowing what to do in a flood can significantly reduce the risk to life, property and possessions. "
Some properties in the area are in Rapid Response Catchments meaning rivers are very responsive to heavy rainfall and can cause flash flooding even before flood warnings are issued.
Nick Green, the Environment Agency Midlands manager, said: "Flash floods happen in a matter of second or minutes when the rain starts to fall. Streets, ditches and rivers can turn into torrents in a matter of seconds so people can be walking around with no impact and then all of a sudden there's water all around them."
The Environment Agency is advising people to sign up for flood warnings and to call 999 if in immediate danger.