Provided by RS Risk Solutions

UK Unprepared for Floods

More than three quarters of people think that the UK is unprepared for floods and other climate driven weather events. 2001 Britons were surveyed in late October 2024 to understand public perception of the country’s preparedness for severe weather before the beginning of the winter storm season. The key findings were as follows:

• More than three quarters (78%) that were surveyed believe the UK is unprepared to deal with the impacts of climate change fuelled severe weather events such as flooding. Moreover 26% believe the UK is not prepared at all.
• Only 16% of respondents think the UK is making good progress in adapting to climate change risks. (39%) don’t believe the UK Is making good progress and 45% are on the fence.
• Flooding tops the list of the most pressing climate change related issues the UK needs to tackle, with 68% of respondents naming it their number one risk. Other concerns mentioned by survey participants included sea level rise and coastal erosion, loss of species, habitats and threats of extinction, severe storms, food shortages and insecurity.

The British public do not feel confident about the progress the UK is making In terms of adapting to climate change impacts and extreme weather.

The surveys findings could be cause for concern among individuals and businesses especially since 1 in 4 properties could be at risk of flooding by 2025 due to heavier rainfall and rising sea levels. 6.3 Million properties are already at risk from flooding, more than originally thought.

A government spokesperson said “Flooding this winter has shown there is much more work needed to be done to protect communities from the devastating impact it leaves behind. That’s why we are taking action now £2.4 billion over the next two years to build and maintain flood defences, which will protect homes and businesses across the country.

In the meantime, individuals and businesses should consider risk mitigation strategies to reduce weather related damage to their properties and obtain robust insurance cover.

Contact us today for additional guidance and risk mitigation resources.