Flooding and coronavirus lockdown restrictions
Over the last 48 hours, persistent and heavy rainfall has led to significant flooding across the county, rendering some communities inaccessible and homes being flooded.
Understandably many will be worried about violating the current coronavirus lockdown regulations by moving into other people’s houses if their homes are flooded or at risk of flooding.
For communities that cannot be evacuated and where the risk of harm to lives and livelihoods is imminent, some of the restrictions under the coronavirus lockdown may not apply.
Therefore, those facing imminent flooding in their homes can move into other suitable accommodation inhabited by those they have no pre-existing bubbling arrangements with.
They are advised to adhere to social distancing and infection prevention measures (eg regular/frequent hand washing, cleaning of touched surfaces, hygiene and wearing face coverings) as much as possible.
For those in the extremely clinically vulnerable group, moving into other people’s homes or having others moving into their homes should be an option of last resort.
In these cases, particular care should be taken to adhere to social distancing and infection prevention measures.
For those who have tested positive and are in their isolation period, please ring 0345 678 9006 and you will be given appropriate support.
If you cannot stay with a friend or a family member for any reason, please ring the Floodline on 0345 678 9006 for help.
The current social distancing guidance can be found below:
Please note:
Staying with family or friends temporarily because of flooding is not breaking coronavirus restrictions – you’re allowed to protect yourself from the risk of harm.
Help minimise the risk of spreading coronavirus by:
- Washing your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds
- Covering your face in enclosed spaces
- Keeping 2m distance where possible
- Let as much fresh air in as possible.
Please stay in one single place until you’re told it is safe to return to your home.
