Sign-posting to key sites, for example the Met Office and Power companies.
Please also follow us on Facebook for updates.
If you have a concern about flooding or highway drainage and blocked gulleys in the borough, please report it through the Report a flooding or drainage problem webpage or contact flooding.enquiries@rbwm.gov.uk.
The Environment Agency is responsible for managing main rivers such as The Thames, The Colne, The Cut and The Bourne, and provides flood warnings and response to any incident from the main rivers in the Borough. The council is committed to working with the Agency, the emergency services and with local people to offer assistance when flooding takes place.
Before, during and after flooding incidents, the council will help wherever possible by:
The first step to being prepared is to check whether you live in a flood risk area. If you do, it's worth considering additional protective measures to prevent your home from flooding, such as:
You can sign up for the Environment Agency flood warnings if you live in a flood-prone area - this can help you gain early warning of any impending problems.
The Environment Agency has guidance for householders and small businesses on how to prepare for flooding.
The National Flood Forum supports and represents communities and individuals who may be affected by flooding.
More information on ways to anticipate and deal with flood risk can be found in the 'Homeowners Guide to Flood Resilience' - you can download a copy through the 'Know your Flood Risk' campaign website.
If you need to be evacuated then see West Berkshire Council’s Evacuation & Shelter and Pet Welfare During Emergencies pages for more guidance.
During severe weather vital information on school closures, revised bin collections, road conditions and other snow/ice related details can be found on our website and by listening to local radio stations. Information will be posted on the website and Twitter as soon as we receive updates.
For information on road closures please visit One.Network
If you have a concern about sewers please report it to Thames Water. Thames Water are responsible for public sewer systems, including managing the risk of sewer flooding, whether from clean water or foul water systems.
Clearance and maintenance of ditches and watercourses is usually the responsibility of the riparian landowner who needs to ensure they are fit for purpose and clear of debris. The Environment Agency provides guidance for landowners on their riparian responsibilities.
See GOV.UK website for additional advise on planning, managing and recovering from a flood
Further information about roles and responsibilities for flooding can be found in the council's Local Flood Risk Management Strategy.
Flood alert – A flood alert will indicate that flooding is possible and that you need to be prepared. Normally this means that rivers are likely to break their banks and spill out into the surrounding areas, flood plains and low lying roads and footpaths.
Flood warning – indicates that flooding is expected inside properties and that immediate action should be taken. You should take action when a flood warning is issued and not wait for a severe flood warning.
Severe flood warning – indicated that there is severe flooding and danger to life. These will be issued only when flooding is posing significant threat to life or disruption to communities.
Environment Agency floodline number: 0345 9881188.