Lancashire County Council is the Lead Local Flood Authority and can be contacted on 0300 123 6780.
Be prepared
Around 5.2 million people in England and Wales (about 1 in 6 properties) is at risk from flooding, yet more than half of those at significant risk of flooding are not aware of this.
View more information on preparing for a flood on the Lancashire County Council website
Flood risk areas
Within South Ribble, the Environment Agency has identified 7 areas where properties and businesses might be at risk of flooding from the Rivers Ribble, Darwen and Lostock. These are:
- River Darwen at Higher Walton
- River Ribble at Walton-Le-Dale
- River Ribble at Salmesbury
- Ribble Estuary Tidal Breach at Hutton & Longton (Hutton Marsh)
- Ribble Estuary at Lower Penwortham
- Lostock and Yarrow Catchment
- Leyland Flash Flood Area (limited warnings available)
Flood warnings and what they mean
What it means
Flooding is possible. Be prepared.
When it's used
2 hours to 2 days in advance of flooding.
What to do
- prepare a flood kit of essential items
- monitor local water levels and the flood forecast on the Environment Agency website or by calling 0845 988 1188.
What it means
Flooding is expected. Immediate action required.
When it's used
Half an hour to 1 day in advance of flooding.
What to do
- move family, pets and valuables to a safe place
- turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if safe to do so
- put flood protection equipment in place.
What it means
Severe flooding. Danger to life.
When it's used
When flooding poses a significant threat to life
What to do
- stay in a safe place with a means of escape
- be ready should you need to evacuate your home
- co-operate with the emergency services
- call 999 if you are in immediate danger.