SEPA statement: Perth flooding
Date published: 22 November 2023
Statement regarding flooding events occurring across Perth.
David Pirie, Executive Director at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said:
“The operation, maintenance and deployment of Perth’s flood protection scheme is the responsibility of Perth & Kinross Council.
“As with any severe weather event, our teams at SEPA worked around the clock with public partners to prepare for significant flooding impacts during October’s severe weather events. We monitored rainfall and river levels 24/7, issuing and updating alerts and warnings as required. Both events, including 6-8th October, were forecast well in advance and were well responded to by public partners across the country.
“SEPA began warning public partners, including Perth and Kinross Council, of potential flooding on Wednesday 4th October in our daily Flood Guidance Statements. On Friday 6th October, a Flood Alert covering the region was issued, an Amber weather warning issued by the Met Office for heavy rain was in place, and a Major Incident was declared by Police Scotland.
“Through Saturday 7th October, these messages were updated and repeated with partners. In addition to this, on Sunday 8th October at 6.34am, a local Flood Warning for the specific area was issued, several hours before the flooding impacts occurred.
“SEPA has met with the council’s leadership. A full debrief with partners will take place in due course, as is standard practice. In the meantime, SEPA remains fully committed to helping communities and responders plan and prepare for future flood events.”
Notes to editor
- SEPA is Scotland’s national flood forecasting, flood warning and strategic flood risk management authority.
- SEPA is not responsible for the operation, maintenance or deployment of flood gates or other protection measures.
- More information about flooding responsibilities is available on our website.
- A flood alert is an early indication of potential flooding from rivers, the sea and surface water. It is issued for larger geographical areas – usually the boundaries of local authorities. If a flood alert is issued, people in this area should remain alert and vigilant and prepare for potential flooding. Flood warnings advise that flooding is imminent. Immediate action is required and people should take measures to protect themselves and their property.