Preparing for local climate change

The local effects of a changing climate are starting to have an impact in our area and will increase over time. We can all take action to help protect ourselves from these.

The top risks to the United Kingdom are:

  • flooding
  • extreme heat
  • water shortages
  • risks to food supply
  • increased pests and diseases

In South Gloucestershire we are likely to see:

  • hotter, drier summers with less rain
  • warmer winters with more frequent and heavier rainfall
  • more flooding as sea levels rise (72cm or above predicted by 2050)

Find out about the likely impacts for your area.

The following information will help you prepare for the most likely risks to South Gloucestershire, namely flooding and excess heat.

Flooding

Protect your home

Reduce the risk of your property becoming flood damaged by:

  • regularly clear out guttering and check drains for blockages
  • avoid concreting or tarmacking driveways and gardens, soil and vegetation help to soak up excess water
  • find out if your area has a history of flooding
  • sign up for flood warnings

For areas with a history of flooding, these actions can help:

  • temporary seals for doors and air bricks
  • removable barriers for doors and windows
  • install one-way valves for toilets and drain pipes
  • install pump and sump systems to drain water from below floor level faster than it rises
  • keep valuable items upstairs
  • use pallets, bricks or blocks to raise items up from the floor
  • put plugs in sinks or baths

Protect your health

Flood water can be contaminated with sewage and bacteria. You should always:

  • use rubber gloves when cleaning up during or after flooding
  • wash hands after contact with flood water
  • cover any cuts and open sores

Take care with your personal safety and:

  • avoid using electricity sources if flooding is likely to impact electrics
  • avoid walking or driving through flood water unless advised to by emergency services

Flooding can also impact on your mental health, seek support if this applies to you.

Look out for your community

Help others if safe to do so by:

You can find more information on preparing your property for flooding, as well as what to do in the event of a flood in the related links section.

Extreme heat 

Adapt your home

To find out what you can do to adapt your home in extreme heat, watch our Summer Cooling video:

Keep your home cooler in hot weather by:

  • closing curtains and windows during the day
  • insulate heating and hot water pipes
  • grow plants around your home if you can, they will help shade and cool the air around the building
  • use fans only when you are in the room, as they work by cooling the moisture on your skin

Protect your health

  • always take advice from a trained medical professional if you have an underlying health condition
  • use cool (not freezing) water for showers and drinking, freezing cold water can make your body react and try to heat up again
  • run your wrists under cool water from the cold tap
  • wear a hat and keep a bottle of water when outdoors
  • look for shady routes when walking and cycling 
  • wear loose clothing in light colours and non-synthetic materials

Look out for your community

  • check on elderly and vulnerable neighbours, people with respiratory or heart issues are at a higher risk 
  • leave small containers of water out for animals and birds

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