Marlborough Town Council
Flooding
Flooding is a natural event and no drainage or flood protection system can give absolute protection. Flooding occurs in different ways, such as heavy rainfall causing waterways to overflow onto surrounding land, or heavy rainfall over a short period of time resulting in flash flooding when the ground cannot absorb the water quickly enough.
The Environment Agency Website can tell you more about different types of flooding.
This page provides some pointers to help you prepare for, and deal with, a flood.
Is there a risk of flooding?
The Environment Agency is able to issue warnings several hours in advance of the possibility of river flooding using their automatic flood warning systems and also by radio and TV messages. An automated telephone or fax warning system is available to householders whose property has been flooded in the past. They are also able to provide warning messages about flooding from ground water in some areas. To find out what services are available in your area, or for the latest information on flooding, call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 or contact them via the Environment Agency Website.
How can I be prepared?
The Environment Agency has some simple steps to reduce the impact of flooding on your home or business. You can also make a flood plan in advance so you'll know what to do in an emergency.
What to do if you are flooded
At home
Listen to local radio for updates and advice
Avoid contact with flood water as much as possible as it may be contaminated with sewage or other pollutants
Keep electrical cables out of water, and wear rubber boots to avoid electric shocks
Wash any cuts and grazes and cover with a waterproof plaster
Keep a list of emergency numbers
Use a mobile phone as landlines may be affected by flood water
If the emergency services tell you to evacuate, follow their instructions
Outside
Try to avoid walking through floodwater. Six inches of fast flowing water is enough to knock over an adult
Manhole covers may have been lifted off and there may be other hazards hidden under the water
Don't walk along riverbanks or cross river bridges in flood conditions, they may collapse
Don't let children play in floodwater
Avoid travel if possible, but if you must drive, go slowly and cautiously. Floods can turn a usually quiet road into a potential hazard. Don't drive down closed roads
Aquaplaning is much more likely during flood conditions
Don't drive through water if you can't tell how deep it is. Two feet of water is enough to float a car
Drive considerately, the bow wave from your car could flood nearby homes
80% of flood related deaths are in a vehicle. If your car stalls in water do not attempt to recover it. Leave it and move yourself and any passengers to safer ground
If you do have to travel, let someone know about your travel plans
Sandbags
Neither the Town Council nor Wiltshire Council has a duty to provide sandbags or other temporary flood defences to residential or business properties although we will try to help subject to supply and demand. It is the property owner's responsibility to protect their property from flooding. Our policy on sandbags is attached below.
Further information
You can pick up a leaflet on being prepared: a guide for older people from our offices at 5 High Street, Marlborough SN8 1AA.
Marlborough's Flood Plan will be published soon.
There is good information available on Wiltshire Council's website and the Environment Agency Website. Age UK has good advice on preparing your home, making a flood kit and more for people of all ages.
If you require further information or require assistance with flood defence or land drainage matters please phone 0300 456 0105 or contact localhighways@wiltshire.gov.uk
 Marlborough. Sandbag Policy.pdf | 146 kB |