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SEPA urges Dumfries and Galloway this winter to ‘Prepare and Be Aware, flooding can affect you’

Met Office climate projections indicate an increase in the intensity of weather events and much wetter winters, with Scotland already experiencing the challenges these changes bring. The last storm season saw the highest number of named storms since 2015, with several causing flooding across Dumfries and Galloway – and several named storms this winter have already resulted in impacts. 

Storm Kathleen in April this year saw 90mph winds cause dangerous coastal conditions in particular to the Solway Coast, whilst the River Nith catchment area is often affected by intense rainfall causing flooding at Whitesands in particular. In December 2022, the highest river levels ever were recorded at Whitesands following heavy rainfall and strong winds which caused extensive damage from surface water and river flooding across the region. 

Since September 2023, SEPA has issued over 32 regional Flood Alerts and local Flood Warnings in Dumfries and Galloway. Despite this, fewer than 1,600 people in the region are signed up to Floodline. 

Flooding impacts people in deeply personal ways, and it can take a long time to recover if your property, belongings or business are damaged. This is unfortunately the growing reality of climate change in Scotland. But there are things you can do to minimise such impacts.   

Over the coming weeks SEPA is providing vital advice to communities across Aberdeenshire through local radio and social media on how to prepare for flooding this winter. 

SEPA work 24/7, 365 days a year to help you prepare and be aware of the risks of flooding and are urging you to do three things which can help you during flooding: 

Check the Scottish Flood Forecast (a three-day outlook of where flooding might happen/is likely to occur, developed by SEPA and the Met Office)  

Sign up to Floodline for text, email or phone call messages for the area where you live or work  

Follow SEPA on social media for flooding regular updates and information on flooding 

Even if you don’t live in a flood risk area, flooding can still impact you. During the winter weather you should check your transport routes before you travel and use the comprehensive information and tools provided by SEPA to stay one step ahead. 

In addition to keeping up to date with the latest flooding information for your area, SEPA is recommending preparing ‘flood kits’ for your home, business or for those in need in your community. Packing essentials such as medication, torches, first aid kits, bottled water and essential child and pet supplies like food and nappies can help you and your family react quickly and stay safe.  

SEPA’s Head of Hydrology and Flooding, Vincent Fitzsimons highlighted the importance of preparedness: 

“Flooding can affect all of us, and being prepared can make a significant difference. Whether it’s knowing if your area is at risk, having a plan in place, or simply staying informed, SEPA can help you protect what matters most. This winter, we encourage everyone to take advantage of our services and be ready for whatever the weather may bring.” 

Prepare and be Aware, flooding can affect you. 

For more information to help you prepare and be aware this winter, visit sepa.scot/flooding.  

Notes to Editors

Information: 

Scottish Flood Forecast developed by SEPA and the Met Office is a 24/7, 365 days a year flood forecasting and warning service to show where flooding might happen/is likely to occur over the next 3 days. 

Registering for Floodline helps you be aware of potential flooding and provides those in affected areas with flood alerts and warnings via text, phone call or email. 

@SEPAFlood on X and @ScottishEnvironmentProtectionAgency on Facebook both provide regular information on flooding. 

What is the difference between a flood alert and a flood warning? 

A flood alert covers large regional areas, these are issued when flooding is possible and you should be prepared, whereas a flood warning covers a specific, local area where flooding is expected, and you should take action. 

Flood kit essentials: 

Flood kit video 

• Torch and spare batteries  
• Tirst aid kit  
• Any prescription medicines you might need  
• Warm, waterproof shoes and clothes  
• Rubber gloves  
• Bottled water and snacks  
• Essential pet and children supplies (like pet food and nappies)  
• Insurance documents   
• Passports  
• Portable wind-up or battery powered radio (and spare batteries)  
• A list of important phone numbers  

 Store your flood kit in a waterproof box and put it somewhere high up.