Background Note 2 – Where to go for advice on surviving extreme weather events in the Chichester area – a summary
Below is a summary of the relevant sources of advice available to local residents, including government bodies, agencies, utilities, and charities, with a focus on guidance for extreme weather such as heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, droughts, wildfires, and related disruptions.
These organisations sites provide essential guidance, practical tips, and direct support to ensure the community can effectively respond to the challenges posed by climate change.
1. Chichester District Council Scope of Advice: The local authority provides guidance on emergency planning and preparedness, including information on local flood risk management, drought response, and support during extreme weather events. They offer specific advice on what to do before, during, and after floods, as well as contact details for local emergency services.
Website: https://www.chichester.gov.uk/emergencyplans
2. West Sussex County Council Scope of Advice: Provides comprehensive advice on preparing for and responding to a range of extreme weather events. This includes information on flood protection, road safety during severe weather, managing heatwaves, and supporting vulnerable individuals such as the elderly. They also coordinate local emergency responses and provide links to further resources.
Website: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire-emergencies-and-crime/preparing-for-emergencies/
3. Environment Agency Scope of Advice: The Environment Agency offers detailed information on flood warnings, river and groundwater flood risks, and coastal erosion in Chichester. Residents can sign up for flood alerts and access resources on how to protect their property from flooding, and what to do during a flood.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/check-flood-risk
4. Met Office Scope of Advice: Provides up-to-date weather warnings for Chichester, including alerts for heavy rain, strong winds, and extreme temperatures. The Met Office website also offers advice on staying safe during severe weather, including travel safety and advice for vulnerable groups.
Website: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice
5. Southern Water Scope of Advice: Southern Water offers advice on how to prepare for and respond to water shortages during droughts, as well as information on preventing sewer flooding. They provide practical tips on water conservation and advice on what to do if your water supply is disrupted.
Website: https://www.southernwater.co.uk/help-and-support/how-to-save-water-in-your-home/
6. SSEN/UK Power Networks Scope of Advice: SSEN and UK Power Networks provide guidance on what to do in the event of power outages, which are often a consequence of severe weather. They offer a Priority Services Register for vulnerable customers, ensuring they receive extra support during disruptions.
Website: https://www.ssen.co.uk/power-cuts-emergencies/what-to-do-during-a-power-cut/ https://www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/power-cut
7. Public Health England (now part of UK Health Security Agency) Scope of Advice: Offers guidance on health risks associated with extreme weather, such as heatwaves and cold snaps. Their advice is particularly relevant for older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions, focusing on staying safe and healthy during extreme temperatures.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/hot-weather-and-health-guidance-and-advice
8. British Red Cross Scope of Advice: The British Red Cross provides resources on emergency preparedness, including first aid advice and how to create a household emergency plan. They offer specific support for older people and those with disabilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for extreme weather events.
Website: https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/five-tips-to-plan-for-emergencies
9. Age UK Scope of Advice: Age UK provides tailored advice for older residents on coping with extreme weather, particularly heatwaves and cold spells. Their resources include tips on staying warm, keeping cool, and ensuring that older adults have access to essential supplies during disruptions.
Website: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/mind-body/staying-cool-in-a-heatwave/
10. National Flood Forum Scope of Advice: A charity dedicated to supporting communities affected by flooding, the National Flood Forum offers advice on flood prevention, recovery, and community resilience. They provide specific guidance on how to prepare for floods, protect properties, and support vulnerable individuals.
Website: https://nationalfloodforum.org.uk/
11. Flood Mary Scope of Advice: very practical advice from Mary – who is used to flooding. She offers products and advice that may save your home. Website: https://floodmary.com/
This information note was prepared by Colin McKenna, Chair of Chichester Climate Change Group, 22nd August 2024
Chichester Adapt to the Climate navigation
- Overview
- Programme
- Presentations and videos
- Background Note 1 – Why
- Background Note 2 – Advice
- Background Note 3 – What