Managing our highest community risks
Flooding and evacuation from water
GFRS is aware of the devastating effects flooding has on the county's communities, businesses and infrastructure. Gloucestershire hosts, amongst other water courses, the River Severn which at 220 miles in length is the UK's longest river. Its extensive length means it navigates various landscapes and collects water from numerous tributaries, increasing the volume of water that can lead to flooding. Responsibility for flooding sits with multiple agencies and government departments who provide a joint approach to flood management within the county. Although there is currently no statutory duty for responding to flooding incidents, we know these incidents occur across the county, and from speaking with residents that this remains an important area that they believe GFRS should be responding to.