Following on from the recent storms we’ve had, the Environment Agency has written to us with some important advice which we share below:
Reporting Flooding
Report flooding as soon as it happens: https://www.gov.uk/report-flood-cause Environment Agency Incident Hotline 0800 80 70 60
Reporting flooding helps the Environment Agency to understand the impacts on properties or communities and prioritise their response. By gathering information, specific issues impacting residents and communities are identified and recurring issues highlighted. The evidence from flood reporting is crucial in planning effective maintenance and justifying business cases for potential long-term solutions.
Once affected residents are able, the Environment Agency asks that they please submit a full report to floodreport.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/. This tool is available for residents across Wessex (the service is hosted by Dorset Council but is available for other local authority areas). The information provided is then shared with the risk management authorities to ensure it goes to the correct organisation depending on the source and impact of flooding. If the portal opens on the wrong FORT region, don’t worry, you will be redirected when you identify a property affected.
Businesses
Many businesses have also been affected by flooding, with impacts not only on property but on livelihoods and the wider community. Flood Mary has produced a Business Flood Handbook, and The Flood Hub also has resources about business resilience and recovery.
You can stay up to date on the latest flood warnings here: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/.
Flood Recovery
Please find guidance here (opens as a PDF in a new window): Wessex Flood Recovery Guide 2026