3-Apr-2006 - Environment
Agency Wales is urging people to be alert to the
possibility of further flooding over the next
twenty-four hours.
The Met Office has forecast
further heavy rain later today and high spring
tides combined with strong winds may cause further
problems this evening and tomorrow morning.
This morning tidal flood warnings
were in force for most of the Welsh coastline.
The high tide at Milford Haven was the highest
for ten years. The tidal flood warnings have now
been cleared but further warnings will be issued
later today for this evening's high tide. Flood
watches remain in force for much of the Wales
coast and the public are advised to take care
along coastal roads and paths where wind blown
spray and waves may be hazardous.
Flood Warning staff will continue
to monitor river and tidal levels closely over
the next twenty-four hours.
John Mosedale, Flood Risk Manager
Wales, said: ‘This was an unusually high tide.
It was fortunate that the winds on the Welsh coast
were not as strong as they might have been. However,
many people don't even know they are at risk of
flooding. Please take time before the next storm
to get ready:
‘First, ask yourself if you
are at risk of flooding. If in doubt, call Floodline
or check on our website www.environment-agency.gov.uk
‘If you are at risk, take action
to prepare yourself. You can get advice from Floodline
or the web site. Simple preparations can make
a big difference. It’s far too late to start thinking
about it at 3am when the river is coming under
your door. Move your irreplaceable possessions,
such as family photos, upstairs while you can.’
‘If you are at risk, keep an
eye on our flood warnings. You can find out the
latest position from Floodline or from our website.’
The Agency provides the 24 hour
Floodline 0845 988 1188 service. You can listen
to recorded flood warning information for your
area or speak to an operator for advice 24 hours
a day. Information packs on how people can prepare
themselves and their properties to deal with flooding
can also be obtained by phoning the Floodline
The Agency also updates flood
warnings on its web site every 15 minutes. www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodwarning
The Agency is urging people
in at risk areas to remind themselves of the FloodWarning
codes.
Flood Watch – Flooding is possible.
Be aware! Be prepared! Watch out!
Flood Warning – Flooding of
homes, businesses and main roads is expected.
Act now!
Severe Flood Warning – Severe
flooding is expected. Imminent danger to life
and property. Act now number.
All Clear – There are no Flood
Warnings or Flood Watches in force for the area.
Flood water levels are receding.
Check all is safe to return. Seek advice.
Environment Agency Wales uses
a range of methods to communicate warnings to
members of the public. These
include issuing warnings direct to the public
in some
areas. The methods used vary
from the Floodline Warnings Direct automated
messaging system to the traditional,
such as sirens and loudhailers. Members of the
public can find out which warning
methods are used in a specific area by telephoning
Floodline 0845 988 1188 or checking
the internet on www.environmentagency.gov.uk/floodwarning
