Calderdale Council supports flooding preparedness campaign
Calderdale residents are being urged to ensure they are prepared for severe weather, including being flood aware and ready.
September is National Preparedness Month in the UK and Calderdale Council and partner organisations say it is the right time to check if people are ready for unexpected emergencies.
In recent weeks, weather reports have spoken about a predicted El Nino weather pattern.
The Met Office has said that the developing El Nino in 2026 is likely to increase the chances of a wetter, stormier autumn and early winter in north western Europe, including the UK.
Calderdale has a history of severe flooding and there are large scale completed, underway or planned flood alleviation works in the borough.
Steep sides valleys where flooding-related issues can happen quickly have already seen the areas around the River Calder and tributaries subject to flood alerts twice in recent weeks when thunderstorms have threatened.
The council is joining the #30Days30WaysUK campaign, where every day in September tips and quick challenges are shared.
“These help you, your family, and your business get prepared step by step,” the council has said though its social media outlets.
These have so far included a Flood Aware Day and the council says being flood-aware means taking control before the water rises.
They have urged residents to check their plans in case the worse does happen.
These include getting warnings by signing up for free flood alerts by text, phone, or email, packing a “grab bag”, keeping essentials in a handy spot, including packing medicine, important papers, a torch, a phone charger, warm clothes, and a first-aid kit.
Good advice is to make a plan – agreeing on where your family will meet to address issues should they arise – and knowing how to protect your things, for example by moving them upstairs, and also who to call.
The council said: “Calderdale has a long history of flooding.
“Its steep-sided valleys and many watercourses mean that heavy rainfall can quickly cause rivers and water levels to rise, making it important for residents and businesses to understand their local flood risk and know how to prepare.”