Helping communities stay ahead of flooding along the Great Ouse

This is where prolonged dry conditions can be followed by periods of heavy rainfall and flooding. 

With severe drought recently declared in parts of southern England, and a heightened potential for a wet winter, communities can face contrasting challenges of water scarcity and flooding, sometimes in the same season. The Environment Agency is encouraging communities to prepare for the risks ahead as part of its Flood Action Week campaign.

Across the Great Ouse catchment communities are strengthening their flood preparedness now. Thirty-five communities across the Great Ouse catchment have already developed community flood plans and received a start-up emergency flood kit. Tailored to each community the kits typically include high visibility jackets, a submersible pump, roadside ‘Flood’ signs, temporary barriers, a first aid kit, two-way radios, and torches. These are practical tools that can make a real difference when flooding threatens.

Adam Foster, Flood Risk Manager from the Environment Agency said:

“We’re facing extreme weather, with flood and drought placing communities under growing pressure. Building resilience has never been more important.  

“Through flood groups, community flood plans, and emergency flood kits, this project is equipping local volunteers and communities to respond quickly and effectively when water levels rise. We can’t always prevent flooding, but we can help communities understand their risk, be better prepared and hopefully recover more quickly.”

One example of community preparedness in action is Riseley, Bedfordshire, where residents have shown the value of getting organised before flooding strikes. Residents formed a flood group and worked with the Environment Agency and Bedford Borough Council to develop a community flood plan, identify vulnerable residents, and spread the word through door-knocking, social media and leaflets. And, when flooding later hit the village, their preparation paid off.