Get flood warnings for Hull and the East Riding
A flood warning gives you something invaluable – time. Time to move your belongings, protect your home, check on your neighbours and make sure your family is safe. In our region, where flooding can develop quickly and from multiple directions at once, signing up for free flood alerts could make a real difference.
Only 16% of people in Hull feel prepared for a flood. Signing up for warnings is one of the simplest and most effective steps you can take to change that. It is free, takes just a few minutes, and could give you hours of advance notice before water reaches your door.
Why flood warnings matter in Hull and the East Riding
Hull and the East Riding face some of the most complex flood risks in the UK. River flooding, tidal surges, surface water and groundwater can all affect this region – sometimes at the same time. Without a flood warning, you may only become aware of flooding once water is already on its way, leaving little time to act.
Early flood warnings and a clear plan of action can significantly reduce impact.
More than a third of households in Hull have yet to take any steps to protect themselves from future flood events. Signing up for warnings is the most straightforward first step.
How to register for flood warnings
The Environment Agency provides free flood warnings in Hull and the East Riding for residents and businesses. Signing up takes just a few minutes and is completely free.
Once registered, you will receive flood alerts by phone, text or email – or a combination of all three. You can manage your preferences, update your contact details and choose which types of warnings you want to receive at any time.
Understanding flood warning levels
The Environment Agency uses four levels of flood notification. Knowing what each one means helps you respond quickly and calmly.
Flood alert
- Flooding is possible. Be prepared. Check your flood alerts regularly and make sure your emergency plan is ready.
Flood warning
- Flooding is expected. Immediate action required. This is the point to act on your flood warning plan – move belongings upstairs, check on vulnerable neighbours and prepare to evacuate if needed.
Severe flood warning
- Severe flooding is expected. There is a danger to life. Follow the instructions of emergency services immediately.
Warning no longer in force
- The flood risk has passed for this location. Continue to monitor conditions as they can change quickly.
What to do when you receive a flood warning
Receiving a flood warning is not a reason to panic – it is a reason to act. Here is what to do:
- Move valuable belongings, documents and electricals to upper floors
- Turn off gas and electricity if flooding is likely to reach your property
- Secure outdoor items that could be moved by floodwater
- Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may need help
Do not drive or walk through floodwater – just 30cm of moving water can knock an adult off their feet - Follow any evacuation instructions from the local council or emergency services
Other ways to stay informed
As well as signing up for official flood warnings in Hull and the East Riding, there are other ways to keep on top of conditions:
- Follow the Met Office for weather forecasts and extreme weather alerts
- Monitor the Environment Agency’s live flood map online
- Follow Living With Water and local councils’ social media channels for real-time updates during flood events
- Share warnings with family, friends and neighbours – especially those who may not be signed up themselves
Frequently asked questions
A flood alert means flooding is possible – you should be prepared. A flood warning means flooding is expected and you need to take action now. A severe flood warning means there is a danger to life. Knowing the difference helps you respond appropriately and avoid unnecessary panic – or dangerous complacency.
Yes. The Environment Agency’s flood warning service is completely free for residents and businesses. Warnings can be sent to multiple contacts within your household or business, so everyone is kept informed.
The Environment Agency aims to issue flood warnings as early as possible – often several hours in advance. However, surface water flooding in particular can develop very quickly, sometimes within minutes of intense rainfall. That is why it is important to have a flood plan in place so you can act fast the moment a warning arrives.
Yes. The Environment Agency’s flood alerts service covers both residential and commercial properties. If your business is in a flood-risk area, signing up for warnings is just as important as it is for your home. In 2007, 1,300 businesses were affected by flooding in Hull alone.
It is always better to receive a flood warning and not need it than to need one and not have it. Some warnings will not result in flooding at your specific property – but conditions can change quickly. Use every warning as an opportunity to check your plan, make sure your grab bag is ready and look out for vulnerable neighbours.
Yes. The Environment Agency operates separate flood warnings services for Hull and the East Riding. If you live or work in the East Riding – including coastal, rural and riverside communities – you can sign up for flood alerts specific to your location.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergency flooding queries, contact your local council. Do not attempt to walk or drive through floodwater – it can be deeper and faster-moving than it appears, and even shallow water can carry hidden hazards.
