Types of flooding

There are many sources of flooding, and SEPA is the river and coastal flood warning authority for Scotland. 

River flooding: this occurs when a river cannot cope with the amount of water entering it.

Coastal flooding: weather and tidal conditions can increase sea levels.  The frequency and severity of this type of flooding is predicted to rise. For more information on coastal flooding click here.

But there are other types of flooding where a good flood prevention plan can help you protect your home or business.

Surface water flooding: this happens when there is heavy rainfall on ground that is already saturated, or on paved areas where drainage is poor.

Groundwater flooding: when rainfall causes the water that is naturally stored underground to rise to the surface it can flood low-lying areas.

Drain and sewer flooding: this can occur during heavy rain when drains have become blocked or full.

Broken water mains flooding: burst water mains can cause flooding underground and to basements of properties.