Types of flooding

Surface water flooding

Surface water flooding happens when heavy rainfall is unable to soak into the earth. This could be because the earth is fully saturated, or because the surface is impermeable, such as concrete or tarmac roads and car parks.

Man-made surfaces are designed to drain water away but heavy rainfall can overwhelm these drains, causing surface water flooding. This often affects roads and can cause flooding in nearby properties.

Surface water flooding can be triggered by a recently blocked drain or sudden intense rainfall, so this type of flooding is extremely difficult to predict. It can occur almost anywhere, which is why all homeowners should protect themselves and prepare for any potential flooding.

Surface water drainage guidance for new development