SEPA guidance on current severe weather situation

Flood warning information for north east Scotland

Due to current weather conditions we have started our new information service for some north east rivers early.

Any flood warnings we are able to issue for these rivers will be posted live on Floodline

Information leaflets on these new flood warning schemes are available: click here

Thawing and flooding

SEPA monitors rainfall and river levels around the clock, using this information to update the Floodline service with flood alerts as appropriate. This information can be accessed through SEPA’s website at www.sepa.org.uk and also via 0845 988 1188. SEPA encourages anyone concerned about the possibility of flooding to use these sources of information and ensure they are prepared and have plans in place should there be any issues.

Advice on dealing with the thaw

  • When moving snow and ice from pavements and paths, be careful to ensure it is not blocking drains. 
  • If alternatives to grit, such as salt, cat litter and sand, have been used then clear up any residues left behind after the thaw as this could lead to drain blockages.
  • Burst pipes are a potential problem. If people experience a burst pipe in the home, turn off the stop valve immediately and open all cold taps to drain the system. Do not turn on the hot taps as the hot water cylinder may collapse if the pipes leading to it are frozen. If in any doubt call a licensed plumber.
  • Be aware that while roads and paths may be more accessible for most, vulnerable groups may still be wary of venturing outside, so continue to help the older or less able people in the community.
  • If driving, be aware that the severe weather may have damaged road surfaces and caused potholes. These can be deeper than they look so drive with care. Hitting a pothole even at moderate speed increases the risk of an accident and can damage cars.

Salt, sand and grit

Many households have been using alternatives to grit, including salt, cat litter and sand. These may be washed into drainage systems when the snow and ice thaw, ultimately ending up in local watercourses.

While the melted snow and ice will dilute these down so that they do not cause an environmental problem, there is the risk that they may cause problems with blockages leading to flooding problems. The best advice is to use it sparingly, try to sweep up any excess and clear up any residues left after the thaw.

Extraction of sand and gravel from the foreshore leads to increased risk of coastal erosion and coastal flooding. As such, significant quantities of beach material should not be removed as it is part of our natural coastal defences.

In the first instance we urge people to contact the landowner to seek permission to remove sand from an area. In the event that people wish to receive guidance on the collection and use of beach sand then contact Marine Scotland Licensing Operations Team via env_prot@marlab.ac.uk, telephone 01224 876544

Slurry issues

Farmers have been having problems with slurry and farm yard manure, which cannot be spread on snow covered or frosty ground. However the length of the current cold weather has led to storage problems for some. SEPA has been in discussion with NFUS and has recognised that where stores are full, a farmer may have little choice but to spread slurry or manure. However, before this happens farmers must contact their local SEPA office to discuss what options are available to them.  (NFUS release www.nfus.org.uk/news/2010/january/sepa-support-sensible-slurry-disposal external link)

Off-road and multi drive vehicles

SEPA has a limited number of off-road vehicles and has been actively looking at how these can best be used to support local communities. We hope to have plans finalised as soon as possible, which will also take account of SEPA’s operational needs (eg we may need our vehicles at short notice if our staff have to go out to investigate a pollution incident or access hydrometric network sites for flood warning data).

Additional environmental advice and guidance

  • There is a risk that pipework and storage infrastructure for oils, pesticides and other liquids have been damaged by freezing. Any leakages are likely to cause land contamination and pollution of the water environment. Ensure that all pipework and associated infrastructure are inspected for leaks. Any leaks should be stopped as soon as possible. Any significant leaks should be reported to SEPA. Ensure any clean-up materials and kit are accessible and in working order. This advice applies equally to homes, farms and industrial premises.
  • Water abstraction infrastructure may also be similarly affected. Please inspect all such infrastructure to ensure that water is not being wasted via leakage.
  • Ensure all salt stores are covered – concentrated salt solutions can be damaging to the environment.
  • The interceptory drainage features on many urban rivers will reduce any potential adverse impacts that salt and grit might have.
  • Low temperatures and the development of ice are natural features of Scottish rivers- particularly in upland areas, and it is likely that any adverse impacts will be short lived.
  • Where ice has formed on lowland rivers with unconsolidated soft sediment banks, localised erosion may occur where the ice and river bank break-off. However, any damage is likely to be short term due to the depositional nature of these rivers.
  • Localised damage to road side vegetation may arise from the application of salt to roads- however, again the impacts will be short lived.

Last updated: 26 February 2010