Article: published on 10 November 2025

« More from Morning Live

Nearly 5 million properties across the UK are now in areas at risk of surface water flooding, and the number is rising every year. Louise Minchin joined BBC Morning Live to look at why flooding is no longer confined to riversides or coastal towns, but something that can affect anyone, anywhere.

As rainfall becomes heavier, temperatures climb and cities expand, drains and sewers are struggling to cope. Flash floods are becoming more frequent, leaving roads blocked, homes damaged and services disrupted. Louise explains what's behind the growing threat, and the practical steps you can take to check your flood risk, protect your home and stay prepared.

A major incident was declared in Wales, but other parts of the UK have also faced flash flooding in November 2025. You might think you're safe if you live in an urban area away from a river or canal, but nearly 5 million properties across the UK are at risk from surface water flooding.

Surface flooding happens when heavy rain overwhelms drains and sewers, causing water to flow over the surface of the land instead of draining away. It doesn't just damage homes and businesses, it also disrupts roads, railways and utilities, bringing entire towns and cities to a standstill.

One of the Morning Live team members experienced this first-hand when blocked drains outside their home caused water to back up and flood their downstairs rooms within minutes.

Last winter alone, the Environment Agency issued more than 3,000 flood alerts, 1,600 flood warnings, and three severe flood warnings. Checking your flood risk takes seconds and can help you prepare before bad weather hits.

Every part of the UK has its own flood risk checker. Use the links below to access your local service.

A British Red Cross survey found that only 16% of people are signed up for flood warnings. In Wales, over a third of those not registered said they didn't know how to or hadn't heard of the service, even though many lived in high-risk areas.

You can sign up to get free flood alerts in each nation of the UK. Use the links below to access your local service. You'll be asked for your name, email and phone number and you'll receive messages if rivers, the sea or groundwater near you are at risk.

Flood alerts are not available in Northern Ireland. The advice is to use flood maps, external to check your flooding risk.

If you're in England, Scotland or Wales you can also sign up, update your details or cancel your account by calling Floodline 24 hours a day on 0345 988 1188.

Standard network rate call charges apply.

Surface flooding is made worse by blocked drains, saturated soil and the loss of natural green space. One in four UK front gardens is now completely paved over, and nearly one in three has no plants at all. That means fewer places for rainwater to drain safely away.

If you're considering repaving your garden or driveway, think about drainage first. Concrete and block paving hold water on the surface. Loose stones or gravel allow rain to soak through. Leaving some green space around your property makes a big difference.

Another option is a rain garden. These shallow, landscaped areas absorb and manage rainwater from roofs or driveways. They're filled with free-draining soil and plants that can handle both wet and dry conditions. Rain gardens can absorb up to 30% more water than a lawn, while supporting wildlife and reducing the load on local drainage systems.

Flood insurance is essential for every household, especially those in high-risk areas. Check your buildings and contents policy carefully to make sure flood damage is included. Renters should have contents insurance, while landlords are responsible for building cover.

Comparison websites are useful for comparing prices, but they don't always show whether flood cover is included. You can search for a suitable policy through the British Insurance Brokers' Association or ask your insurer directly.

If your home has been flooded before or is difficult to insure, you might qualify for support through Flood Re. This UK-wide scheme makes flood insurance more affordable and is open until at least 2039. It can also help with "Build Back Better" grants of up to £10,000 to protect homes from future floods during repair work.

Flooding can happen anywhere and at any time. Even if you don't live near a river or the coast, surface water flooding can strike after a single heavy downpour. Knowing your risk, signing up for alerts and taking simple steps to protect your home can make all the difference.

Get in touch on Whatsapp or by email

« More from Morning Live