Flooding is an increasingly important issue to residents of the South Hams. Responsibility for dealing with floods is spread amongst a number of agencies. The links from this page provide additional, practical information on what to do before, during and after a flooding incident.

To check whether your house is in a flood risk area you can use the Environmental Agency flood map:

Flood Maps

Floodline

Floodline is available 24 hours a day seven days a week and you can contact them by calling 0845 988 1188. The Floodline provides trained operators who can offer immediate practical advice on flood risk and what to do before, during and after a flood. Further information is available on the Floodline website.

The Environment Agency

The Environment Agency is a leading public body involved with the protection and improvement of the environment in England and Wales. Their role is to make sure that air, land and water are looked after today in order to benefit the generations of the future.

Managing Flood Risk

Five million people live in natural floodplains in England and Wales. In the South Hams we have several areas which may be affected by flooding.

The Environment Agency helps to reduce the risk of to people and property from rivers and the sea. They also provide and maintain the majority of permanent flood defences and advise local authorities on the impact of new developments on or near floodplains.

When flooding occurs, the Agency works together with the emergency services, local authorities and water companies to provide emergency response, including the despatch of emergency response teams to clear debris from rivers and weirs in order to keep rivers flowing freely.

Flood Warning Service

The Environment Agency also provides latest flood warning and flood forecasting information. Flood warnings are vital for those with either homes or businesses that are situated on a floodplain.

Information about whether you are at risk of flooding is available on the Environment Agency Website.

Alternatively, you can call the 24-hour floodline on 0845 9881188.

Reporting a Flooding Problem

For any serious flooding or where lives may be at risk, please call the emergency services by dialling 999. Blocked Road Gullies.

Devon County Council are responsible for all road maintenance and repairs within South Hams including the cleaning and emptying of gullies. It is also to them you should report any blocked or flooded gullies.

For further information or to report a blocked gully visit the Devon County Council website.