Flooding
Surface water flooding can be caused by a river or stream overflowing its banks or by the surface water drainage system being overwhelmed by the volume of rain. In some areas, the foul and surface water drainage systems are combined and if they overflow, the floodwater will be contaminated with sewage.
Flooding can also happen when groundwater levels rise as a result of a period of exceptionally wet weather, usually in late winter or early spring. The effects are generally less spectacular than other floods, but they take longer to clear than surface water floods.
In emergency flooding situations, the council will work together with emergency services to effectively respond to the situation, as required.
How to report a flood
To report a flood, and contact relevant agencies in the event of a flood, visit flooding and drainage issues (leicestershire.gov.uk)
In the case of an immediate risk to life or health, call 999 to contact the emergency services.
How to prepare for a flood
It is important that residents and business owners take appropriate steps to protect their properties if flood warnings are issued.
You can check for flooding (GOV.UK) and sign up for flood alerts (GOV.UK)
You can prepare a personal flood plan (GOV.UK)
If your home is about to be flooded
If your area has a flood warning (when flooding is expected) or severe flood warning (when there’s a danger to life), it is recommended that you:
- Turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies, if it is safe to do so (do not touch an electrical switch if you’re standing in water)
- Move your family, vehicles, pets and important items to safety, for example upstairs or to higher ground
- Use flood protection products, for example flood barriers or air brick covers if you have them
- Follow advice from your local council or the emergency services, you may be asked to evacuate
Sandbag policy
Councils do not have a statutory duty to provide sandbags or flood sacks. However, we may provide sandbags as an emergency response to flooding. If you wish to have sandbags prior to any event and are able-bodied, you should obtain them from local builders' merchants.
We will attempt to make any stock available in line with the following priorities:
- To protect life, critical infrastructure, and buildings (such as hospitals and electric substations)
- To protect elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents
- To support the emergency services
Sandbags will not be made available for the protection of gardens, outbuildings or garages.
Elderly and disabled people who wish to have sandbags in advance should contact us on 01455 238141. During emergencies, sandbags will be provided to elderly and disabled people. Due to demand, it will not be possible to deliver to everybody. Therefore, it is better for sandbags or other defences to be obtained prior to an event.
After a flood
Check with the emergency services that it is safe to return to your property.
If you are a homeowner, you should contact your house insurer. If you are a tenant, contact your landlord, as they are responsible for any repairs.
Do not turn on your gas, electricity or water until your utilities company or a qualified engineer has confirmed it is safe to do so.
For further information, please visit guidance on how to keep you and your family safe while cleaning up your home affected by flooding (GOV.UK)
Last updated: 08/05/2024 10:15
