Flooding in Oxford

What should you do in preparation for a flood?

Check the status of your area by visiting the Current Flooding Situation section of the Environment Agency website.

At your property:

• Divert water away from property by using sandbags, or plastic bags filled with earth.
• Clear outside drains to let surface water escape
• Switch off gas and electricity supplies
• Move food and valuables upstairs
• Plug sinks/baths and put a sandbag in toilet bowls to prevent overflow.
• Move pets to safety
• Do as much as you can in daylight

What should you do during a flood?

• Move to higher ground taking medicines you need with you.
• Children should not be allowed to play in flood water
• Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas
• Do not attempt to walk through flooded areas, or use towpaths
• Look after neighbours

In the event of a flood the following numbers can be called to get help and advice:

Road and School Closures

For information regarding road and school closures, visit the Oxfordshire County Council website.

Insurance against flooding

We have complied a summary of the most commonly questions about flooding and insurance. The guidance can be downloaded below:

Oxford Flood Partnership

The Oxford Flood Partnership has been set up to reduce food risk in Oxford. Visit our Oxford Flood Partnership page for full details.

Page last reviewed 15 May 2008