Flooding

The Portsmouth floods of 2000 were the worst since records began. They have been termed a 1 in 50 year event but we need to be prepared to respond to the risk of flooding at all times. Major flooding in Portsmouth is usually caused by either tidal or flash flooding, due to intense localised rainfall.

The Environment Agency issues flood warnings to properties at risk of flooding from main rivers. The floodline service is on 0845 988 1188. Councils, the emergency services, utilities (gas, electric etc.) and local radio stations are also informed when flooding is expected.

Warnings of severe weather will also be available from the Met Office and its Severe Weather Warning Service.

When the Environment Agency warns of tidal flooding the council puts floodgates and flood boards into operation in Old Portsmouth and sandbags are made available in Broad Street car park.

If there is flash flooding caused by rain, the council will distribute sandbags. Check our website and local media for details.

Here’s a guide to protecting your home from flooding:

Be prepared

Check if you are at risk. See the Environment Agency website or call their floodline on 0845 988 1188. Sign up for flood warnings.
Make sure you know how to shut off your gas, electricity and water.
Think about keeping treasured items upstairs.
Keep important documents safe in a sealed bag.
Keep medication within easy reach.
Keep a list of useful numbers, such as your insurance company or the Environment Agency floodline.
Have a supply of sandbags or floorboards ready to block driveways, doorways, and airbricks, or get other flood prevention products (see the Environment Agency site). You can buy sandbags from your local builders merchants or make them yourself by using old pillowcases or carrier bags filled with sand. Replace old sandbags which have deteriorated.

If flooding is imminent

If you live near water, or your home has been flooded before, you may need to block doorways and airbricks. You still need to ensure your property is ventilated. Sandbags can be useful in preventing flood damage or diverting water away from properties.

It takes two people about one hour to fill and place 100 sandbags, giving you a wall one foot high and 20 feet long. Make sure you have enough sand, hessian or plastic bags, shovels, strong helpers, and time to place them properly.

Many people think that sandbags are the only means of protecting your property from floods. Consider purchasing one of the flood prevention products from the Environment Agency site. While we do not endorse any of these products, many are cheap, reusable and easy to use.

Move food, valuables and electrical items upstairs.
Move your car to higher ground.
Divert water by using sandbags, or other means such as boards.
Keep drains clear.
Switch off gas and electricity.
Plug sinks and baths and put sandbags in toilet bowls.
Prepare to be evacuated - take essentials such as clothes, nappies, mobile and charger, blankets or sleeping bags.

After a flood

If a road or a council property is flooded, call the council helpdesk on 023 9283 4092.
If your home or garden is flooded, call your insurance company's emergency helpline.
If the problem appears to be a public sewer, or if you are unsure of sewer ownership, call Southern Water on 0845 278 0845.
For problems with private sewers and drains you will need to contact a drainage company.
If you need pumping equipment, please contact a local specialist firm.
Clean-up companies are under ‘fire and flood restoration’ in the Yellow Pages.
Avoid contact with floodwater - it may be contaminated with sewage.
Wear rubber gloves to clean surfaces or move objects that have been in contact with floodwater. Cover cuts with a waterproof plaster.
Don't use flooded electrical equipment until checked by an electrician.
Don’t dispose of damaged goods until your insurers have had a chance to inspect them.
Keep records of flood damage (photos etc.)
Don’t eat any food that has been in contact with floodwater. Disinfect surfaces and boil utensils.