MEL STRIDE, MP for Central Devon, has voiced his support for the Environment Agency’s Flood Action Week which runs from 14th – 20th October this year.
Flood Action Week aims to raise awareness about the risks of flooding and the measures which can be taken to prepare for flooding.
Around 5.5 million homes and businesses in England are at risk of flooding but despite this, a recent survey conducted by the Environment Agency suggests 50% of households at risk do not believe their homes can flood.
Taking action to prepare and knowing what to do in a flood can significantly reduce risk to life and damage to property.
The Met Office reported the wettest 18 months on record in England up to February 2024, and this September, heavy rainfall caused the first major flooding incident of the season. Climate change continues to increase the likelihood and severity of flood events like this, meaning awareness is more important than ever.
Mel Stride, MP for Central Devon and Shadow Secretary of State for Work and Pensions said: “Flooding poses a risk to many of my constituents. Not only can it cause substantial damage to homes, businesses, and people’s wellbeing, but it also costs lives.
“Taking proactive steps to plan for flooding, and knowing what to do during a flood, can significantly reduce risk, which is why I am in full support of the Environment Agency’s Flood Action Week initiative.”
You can read more about flood preparation on the Government website: https://www.gov.uk/prepare-for-flooding
Regional flood risk warnings are also published on Gov.uk: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/location/devon
