The Environment Agency runs a free flood warning service for England. If your home, business or a place you care about is in an area it covers, you can get a message as soon as flooding is expected. It takes a few minutes to sign up on GOV.UK, and you can also register by calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
The three levels
- Flood alert – flooding is possible. Be prepared.
- Flood warning – flooding is expected. Take action now.
- Severe flood warning – severe flooding. Danger to life.
You’ll also get a message when a warning is removed.
How you get them
You can choose a phone call to a landline or mobile, a text message, an email, or a combination. Many people choose a call and a text, so a warning at night is hard to miss. You can register several locations – useful if you have an elderly relative nearby or own a rental property.
What warnings don’t cover
Warnings are only available where the Environment Agency can forecast flooding – mainly from rivers and the sea, and groundwater in some areas. There are no flood warnings for surface water flooding from heavy rain, because it’s too hard to predict street by street. Keep an eye on Met Office weather warnings for heavy rain and thunderstorms.
What to do when you get one
- Check the latest information on GOV.UK or by calling Floodline.
- Move people, pets, cars and valuables to higher ground or upstairs.
- Put flood barriers and airbrick covers in place if you have them.
- Be ready to turn off gas, electricity and water – but never touch electrics while standing in water.
- Follow advice from the emergency services, and leave if you’re told to.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Shallow fast-moving water can knock you over and hide hazards.
Signing up costs nothing and takes minutes. Do it as soon as you move in – even in Zone 2 or Zone 1 near a river.
Last reviewed November 2026. This guide is general information about England, not legal, financial or insurance advice. Check the Environment Agency’s own services and speak to a professional before making decisions about a specific property.
