Flooding

Flooding can ruin people’s lives and homes and is one of the most devastating natural acts that can occur. Many people live in flood risk areas and here we provide information on preparing for a flood, where help is available from and also on cleaning up after the event. If you live along a riverbank there is always the possibility that bad weather will threaten your property with flooding.

How can I be prepared?

You can prepare for flooding by following these simple steps:

Sign up for free flood warnings.

If flooding is forecast the warning is issued using these four codes:

  • Flood alert – flooding is possible. Be aware! Be prepared.
  • Flood warning – flooding is expected affecting homes, businesses and main roads. Immediate action required! Act Now.
  • Severe flood warning – severe flooding expected. Imminent danger to life or property. Act now.
  • Warnings no longer in force – Issued when flood warnings and flood alerts that have been removed in the last 24 hours.

For real-time flood warnings and advice you can call the environment agency’s floodline on 0345 988 1188. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and provides flood warnings direct to you by telephone, mobile, email, SMS text message, fax or pager.

Find out How to Plan Ahead for Flooding and find out about ways to reduce the impact of flooding to your home and business.

Who co-ordinates a response to a flooding event?

Derbyshire County Council is the lead Local Flood Authority who is responsible for co-ordinating a response by local authorities and the emergency services during a major flood event.

What will Erewash Borough Council do?

Offer advice and information on:
  • Localised flooding problems.
  • At risk areas from flooding.
  • Self-help systems for flood defences, including sandbag supplies.
  • Local contact for response plan for civil emergencies.
  • Erewash Borough Council will issue filled sandbags to residents when a flood warning has been issued in your area or when your property is at imminent risk of flooding.
  • A supply of 10 sandbags (empty) can be collected free of charge from Ilkeston or Long Eaton Town Hall receptions and all leisure centres.

Further information and advice

Contact details

Life threatening emergency: Call 999

Erewash Borough Council: Call (0115) 907 2244. For out of hours emergencies please telephone 01629 533078.

Call Derbyshire County Council on 01629 533190

Call the Environment Agency Floodline on 0345 9881188.