SOUTHAMPTON residents have been warned to brace for a wet winter as flooding is set to hit parts of the city.

A Met Office outlook predicts plenty of rain over the next three months, with wetter conditions expected in January and February next year.

As the potential increases for more wet weather, people are being urged by the Environment Agency (EA) to remain vigilant and safe. 

Dr Will Lang, head of civil contingencies at the Met Office said: “Winters in the UK usually include a wide variety of weather and this winter looks to be no exception.

"However, when looking at the big global drivers that impact weather in the UK there are indications this winter could be wetter than normal.”

The call from the EA comes amid Flood Action Week, a time for people to check their flood risk online, sign up for flood warnings and, if they are at risk, know what to do if flooding hits.

The EA estimates 5.2 million properties in England are at risk from floods, and with the weather set to turn, it is vital people follow advice to protect themselves.

Caroline Douglass, executive director of flooding at the Environment Agency, said: “Now is the time for us all to be vigilant, not complacent, about flooding.

“We’re investing millions into building new schemes and making repairs to keep communities safe.

“Yet we can’t prevent all flooding - climate change is only increasing that risk – and today’s figures show that while some people are prepared, many are not.

“It’s vitally important for the public to go online and check if they are at risk, sign up for Environment Agency warnings, and know what to do if flooding hits.”

Advice from the EA is as follows:

  • If there is a flood alert, prepare by packing medicines, important documents and visit the flood warning information service.
  • If there is a flood warning, act by moving family, pets and belongings to safety. Also turn off gas, water and electricity.
  • If there is a severe flood warning, survive immediate danger by following the advice of emergency services or calling 999 if needed.