Types of flooding

Flooding warning signs on highways

Types of flooding

This page identifies the different types of floods and who are responsible for them.

Main River

The Environment Agency manages flood risk from main rivers.

Ordinary Watercourses

In Worcestershire flood risk from ordinary watercourses (smaller rivers, streams and ditches) is managed by the Borough and District councils and the Lower Severn Internal Drainage Board, within its area.

Surface Water

Flooding from surface water is caused when rainfall cannot soak away because the ground is fully saturated or drainage systems are full. Surface water flooding is an increasing problem as more and more ground is surfaced for developments, for example front gardens are surfaced with block paving. Flood risk from surface water is managed by Worcestershire County Council.

Ground Water

Ground water flooding can occur when water levels underneath the ground rise above normal levels approaching the surface. It is usually caused by long periods of heavy rainfall. Flood risk from ground water is managed by Worcestershire County Council.

Sewer

Sewer flooding may result from a failure in the sewer system. It may also happen when there is not enough capacity to take water entering the system. In Worcestershire flood risk from sewers is managed by Severn Trent Water Ltd.

Burst Water Pipe

In Worcestershire flood risk from burst water pipes is managed by Severn Trent Water Ltd. However burst pipes within a property boundary are the responsibility of the property owner.

Highway

Highway flooding is caused by rain falling onto the highway surface. In Worcestershire flood risk on or from the highway is managed by Worcestershire County Council.

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