According to the Environment Agency the risk is greater than having a fire and the effects can be 30 times more costly than a burglary.

Despite the wholesale destruction of last summer's torrential downpours to nearly 7,000 small businesses and a clean-up estimated to have cost £1.3 billion, many companies have still not put measures into place to protect their premises and staff.

Businesses considered at risk of river flooding should register for the free Floodline Warnings Direct service on the agency's website.

This provides warnings by phone, mobile, e-mail, fax or pager when a flooding is predicted.

Businesses are also encouraged to use the agency's straightforward template to develop a flood plan, as those not at risk of river or coastal flooding can still be affected by surface water flooding. The plan should include a list of important contacts, a map showing key equipment, protective materials and service shut-off points, and basic strategies to protect property, ensure staff safety and minimise business disruption if a flood occurs.

Environment Agency Chief Executive Barbara Young, said: "We know that small businesses have limited time and resources but with climate change putting increasing numbers of businesses at risk of flooding, investing some time in preparation now could really pay dividends in the future."