Flooding in the UK

Sunderland flooding

Climate change and flooding in the UK

Climate breakdown will make flooding in the UK worse.

Almost every year, we see how devastating flooding can be. From Bolton to Monmouth, communities have been left struggling to cope. In 2025, the UK faced major floods starting with Storm Eowyn early in the year and Storm Claudia towards the end.

We desperately need greater protection against future floods.

Sunderland flooding

Flooding hotspots in England and Wales

Is your community at high risk for flooding? Enter your postcode in the map below to see what’s going on in your area.

 

This interactive map identifies the neighbourhoods at high risk of flooding from rivers, seas or surface water (flash flooding). 

It also highlights almost 3,000 neighbourhoods poorly equipped to prepare for flooding in advance and to respond or recover. 

Typically, these areas are home to higher numbers of older and disabled people, who are likely to need more support when floods hit, and people on low-incomes or renting.

A third of those living in these neighbourhoods are people of colour.

Photo of re-flooded peat workings, Thorne & Hatfield Moor

Why's flooding getting worse?

The planet is warming at an unprecedented rate. As a result, sea levels have risen faster over the past 100 years than they have for at least 3,000 years. 

And the frequency and intensity of heavy precipitation events have increased.

We've also damaged the UK’s resilience to flooding by degrading the environment. By draining peat bogs, removing hedgerows, destroying salt marshes, concreting green spaces and building on flood plains, we've undermined the ability of the natural environment to cope.

Why's flooding getting worse?
Photo of re-flooded peat workings, Thorne & Hatfield Moor
People being rescued from a flood in a dingy

Demand real protection from extreme weather for everyone

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Flooding in Richmond, UK

Help in a flood

Are you concerned about the risk of flooding in your area? Or need help during or after a flood?

The UK government has information on what to do if a flood is coming, help during a flood, and what to do afterwards.

Get help and information
Flooding in Richmond, UK