ARCHIVE: Flood management

Most emergencies in the United Kingdom are handled at a local level by the appropriate emergency services, local authorities and agencies, with no direct involvement from Central Government.

Environment Agency

The Environment Agency are responsible for public awareness in areas at risk of flooding in England and Wales, and the distribution of flood warnings. During flooding events the EA’s primary focus is on inspecting and operating flood defences and operate the national flood warning service.

Local Authorities and other organisations

Much of the response to floods at the local level is managed by local authorities and emergency services. Local Authorities are responsible for alleviating the physical effects of flooding on the population, including giving provision of public advise and assisting with emergency response activity and coordinating recovery efforts.

Defra

Defra leads on flood management policy in England. We have a plan in place to assess the implications and to develop and implement a handling and communications strategy with partner organisations.

We have an overarching policy role in relation to all flooding under the flood risk management government strategy, “Making Space for Water”.

Page last modified: 29 October 2008
Page published: 13 February 2008