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Rapid Response Catchments

Following the Boscastle flooding in 2004 the Environment Agency modelled similar rainfall from that day, across the whole country. As a result, several areas have been identified that are at risk of a similar event occurring. Two of these areas are in the Forest of Dean District and would affect;

  • Drybrook, Cinderford Brook and Ruspidge
  • Lydney

The Flood Hub have more information available on their website, including advice on creating a flood plan and useful information to download.

The Forest of Dean District Council have been working with the Environment Agency and have developed plans for both locations. The plans are available below:

These plans are supported by a Gloucestershire wide response plan that would involve a multi-agency response should rapid response flooding occur.

If you live or work in an area that could be affected, you can undertake a few measures to be prepared.

  1. Be vigilant of weather forecast for heavy rain or thunderstorms. Download the Met Office Weather app and save your home location to be aware of their weather warnings or sign up to receive these by email at metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/guide-to-emails.
  2. Sign up for the Environment Agency Flood Alerts/warnings at gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings
    1. For Cinderford sign up to theRivers in the Forest of DeanFlood Alert and the localised flood alert from the Cinderford Community gauge, by emailing emergency@fdean.gov.uk
    2. For Lydney sign up to ‘Rivers in the Forest of DeanFlood Alert and River Lyd at LydneyFlood Warning
    3. or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.
    However, be aware that flash floods can occur before there’s time for warnings to be issued.
  3. Be prepared. Think about what actions you would need to take. Complete Your Personal Flood Plan now and keep it somewhere safe.

More information on preparing for, what to do during and recovering from a flood can be found on our flooding pages https://www.fdean.gov.uk/environment/flooding/.

You can also contact the Environment Agency if you have any questions by emailing floodresilience@environment-agency.gov.uk