Advice as utility firm prepares for flash floods

Forecasters are predicting rain and thunderstorms across Yorkshire today and Yorkshire Water said it had jet vans ready to respond to reports of sewer flooding.

If required, it said the jetters would clear blocked drains from excess water and debris.

Yorkshire Water flood engagement manager Gary Collins said: "It may be hard to hard to imagine given the extremely hot and dry weather we have had but it is predicted that a lot of intense, heavy rain will hit the region.

"Such a huge amount of rain in such a short space of time can overwhelm drainage systems and cause flooding."

To prepare for flooding, Yorkshire Water is recommending customers to:

1. Check if your home is at risk of flooding: You can view flood risk maps on the Environment Agency's website. Just type in your postcode and you'll see which areas are at risk of flooding.

2. Get the latest flood warnings: Sign up to receive free flood alerts by email or SMS from the Environment Agency (EA). Alternatively, you can search for the latest flood warnings directly on their website or call the EA Floodline on 0845 988 1188.

3. Check your home insurance: It's worth checking that your home and contents are insured against flooding. Contact your landlord if you're renting.

4. Prepare a kit of essential items:

- Home insurance documents

- Torch and batteries

- Warm, waterproof clothing and blankets

- First aid kit and medication

- Bottled water and food

- Items for babies/children (e.g. nappies)

5. Protect your valuables: Any valuable possessions should be moved to safety before a flood. Things like electrical equipment and furniture can be moved to a higher floor or temporary storage such as a friend’s house that isn't at risk.

If you suspect that the flooding is as a result of rising groundwater, or surface water run-off, residents should contact their local council.

If the inside of your property is flooding and you suspect it is being caused by a blocked or overloaded sewer, visit http://yorkshirewater.com/contactus

If sewer flooding is occurring outside of your property then the excess water is likely to drain away as the weather improves. 

Please see the Yorkshire Water flooding emergency advice page for more information about what to do.

Avoid contact with flood water if possible. Although the health risks associated to this are small, if you are exposed to flood water then make sure you wash your hands, and any other area of your body exposed to it, as soon as possible with, preferably, hot water and soap. If water is not available, then use sanitising gel or wipes.

Yorkshire Water said drinking water quality had not been affected.