OFFICERS from the Environment Agency will be in the Forest this week giving advice on what to do in the event of a flash flood

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.  

Working with the Forest Council, the Environment Agency will be visiting properties in Cinderford tomorrow (Thursday) and Lydney next Tuesday (April 9) to share information with residents about what they can do to prepare for flash flooding. 

Some properties in the areas are in Rapid Response Catchments which means rivers are very responsive to heavy rainfall and can cause flash flooding even before flood warnings are issued.   

Carole Hender, Flood Resilience Engagement Advisor for the Environment Agency in the west Midlands said:  “Flash flooding is dangerous and can happen very quickly. 

“We are visiting Lydney and Cinderford to speak to residents about how to be prepared and what they can do to stay safe if they are impacted by flooding.”  

A Forest Council spokesperson added:   “We’re pleased to be able to help our at-risk communities affected by rapid response catchment flooding. 

“We’ll be working with the Environment Agency to ensure that people in these areas know how to prepare for flooding, and if it does occur, what to do and who to contact about different issues.

“The door-knocking events with the Environment Agency will be a great opportunity for affected residents to learn more about the help available. 

“For those looking for more information, please check out the council’s newly updated webpage, which outlines the responsibilities of the various agencies and the support for those affected.”  

 Find out if you’re at risk of flooding by checking your postcode on the government’s www.gov.uk website  

 You can sign up for flood warnings. These warn of the risk of flooding from rivers, the sea and groundwater. You’ll be alerted by phone, email or text when flooding is expected.  

 Residents can also download the  Prepare, Act, Survive plan if there is a flood warning.