The Flood Hub

This blog has been written by The Flood Hub People.

Did you know that 1 in 6 people in England live in areas at risk of flooding? Despite this, there are many widespread misconceptions about flooding, how it happens, and who is at risk. Misunderstandings about flood risk can be not only misleading but dangerous, potentially leaving people unprepared when flooding occurs.

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In this blog, we uncover the most common flooding myths in the UK, using real-life examples and clear explanations to help homeowners, businesses, and communities understand flood risks and prepare effectively.

 

 

“I have lived here for 20 years, and it’s never flooded.”

Just because your area hasn’t flooded recently doesn’t mean it will never flood in the future. For example, Cockermouth experienced devastating floods in 2005, despite not having had a significant flood since 1966. Flood risk can change over time due to changes in rainfall patterns, urban development and river management, so it’s important not to rely on past experience alone.

 

 

“I live on a hill, so I won’t flood.”

Living at an elevated location can reduce some flood risks, but it doesn’t guarantee protection. Properties on hills may still be affected by:

• Surface water runoff from surrounding areas.
• Overwhelmed sewerage systems or drainage networks.
• High groundwater levels or burst pipes.

Flooding in nearby low-lying areas can also isolate hilltop properties, making it difficult or unsafe to leave until water levels recede.

 

“That river will never be high enough to flood me.”

Never assume that a river will remain within its banks just because it hasn’t flooded in your lifetime. Rivers can rise rapidly during heavy rainfall events. For instance:

• The River Ribble at Ribchester usually ranges from 0.15m to 3.9m but reached 5.91m during the December 2015 floods.
• The River Eden in Carlisle typically ranges from 0.63m to 3.45m but surged to 7.91m during the same event.

Even historically low rivers can flood under extreme conditions, so awareness and preparation are key.

 

 

“Flooding only happens in winter.”

Floods are not limited to just the winter season. In fact, flash flooding can be particularly severe during the summer months, especially when the ground is dry and hardened. During this time, the ground is unable to absorb water effectively, leading to increased runoff which can cause surface water flooding. Examples include:

• Coverack, Cornwall (July 2017): Localised thunderstorms and heavy rain caused rapid surface water flooding, affecting around 50 properties.
• Boscastle, Cornwall (August 2004): Heavy rainfall caused two rivers to overflow, releasing around two billion litres of water down the valley, destroying homes and infrastructure.

Flood risk is not seasonal and properties in areas prone to heavy rainfall should be prepared year-round.

 

“If I acknowledge my property is in a flood risk area my insurance premiums will rise.”

Many homeowners worry that recognising flood risk will automatically increase insurance costs. In reality:

• Insurance companies already have access to flood risk maps and data, so avoiding disclosure won’t change their assessment.
• Taking property flood resilience measures can reduce the risk of damage and sometimes lower premiums.
• Homeowners may qualify for affordable insurance through the  Flood Re Scheme, which caps costs for properties in flood risk areas. Alternative flood insurance options are also available if you don’t qualify, which you can find information about here.

Being proactive about flood risk can ultimately protect both your property and your wallet.

 

“We’re safe because a town nearby floods, but we didn’t flood here.”

Flood risk is often catchment-specific, meaning that flooding in one town does not automatically indicate safety in nearby areas. For example, in Lancashire, Whalley, which sits within the Calder catchment, experienced severe flooding in December 2015, while Clitheroe, located in the Ribble catchment, was far less affected. Despite the difference in impact during that event, both areas remain susceptible to flooding within their respective catchments, so it is important not to ignore the potential for localised flood events.

 

 

 

To be prepared for flooding, make sure you:

• Know your flood risk.
• Sign up for the Environment Agency Flood Warning Service, if possible.
• Take steps to protect your property.
• Have a flood plan in place.

 

Even if you think your property will never flood, it is better to be prepared.

 

For an overview of some flooding misconceptions, download our infographic here.