The Council is informed by the Flood Forecasting Centre of any potential flood risks. The warning may be a:
- Flood Alert = Flooding possible, be aware.
- Flood Warning = Flooding expected, act now.
- Severe Flood Warning = Severe flooding expected and danger to life.
River flooding
Sirens, installed to warn of river flooding across the Upper Calder Valley, will be activated.
Keep informed. Up-to-date information on flood warnings in West Yorkshire is available:
- Online: Flood Warnings.
- Phone: 0345 988 1188 (Floodline).
Surface water flooding
In heavy rain and storm conditions (or after periods of prolonged rain) drainage systems can be overwhelmed. This is due to the run-off from roads and paths, which leads to flooding. This can happen very quickly and be difficult to predict, so it is advisable to sign up to the Met Office's weather warning service for updates. Also check your local flood group to get a better understanding of your local risk.
For advice on reducing the risk, visit: Met Office website.
Reservoir flooding
If there is a reservoir emergency, you may be alerted in one or more of the following ways:
- Emergency services in your area may knock on your door or use a loudhailer system. You may be given an evacuation card which will give you specific advice about where you should go;
- Helicopter Skyshout (public address system) warnings may be given;
- Local television and radio news alerts.
Note: In the very rare case that a reservoir breaches unexpectedly there may be no time to issue a warning.