Information about flood warnings

The Environment Agency use the Floodline Warnings Direct (FWD) system to send messages to their customers to warn them about flooding from rivers and the sea.

There are three types of warning - Flood Alert, Flood Warning and Severe Flood Warning.

A Flood Alert warns people of the possibility of flooding and encourages them to be alert, stay vigilant and make early preparations for flooding. This replaces the previously issued Flood Watches, and has a new definition, icon and accompanying advice. A Flood Alert will be issued earlier than a Flood Warning, to give customers advance notice that flooding is possible.


A Flood Warning means that flooding is expected and that you should take immediate action.  You should take action when a flood warning is issued and not wait for a severe flood warning.




A Severe Flood Warning is used when there is a significant risk to life or significant disruption to communities. In this case people will be encouraged to take action to protect themselves and follow the advice of the emergency services.

Find out if your area is at risk of flooding

To check if you are at risk from flooding or to register for the free Floodline Warnings Direct service, please call Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or visit the Environment Agency's website. You can also request or download a personal flood plan template, find general advice and information about flooding.

The Gloucestershire Local Resilience Forum has been set up to help the relevant emergency services, local authorities and central government agencies to work together in times of emergency. You will find information on their website about how to be prepared in case of emergency.