New insights into the benefits of flood warnings: Results from a household survey in England and Wales |
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Authors: | Dennis J Parker Sylvia M Tunstall Simon McCarthy |
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Institution: | Flood Hazard Research Centre , Middlesex University , Queensway, Enfield, EN3 4SF, UK |
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Abstract: | The flood defence agency in England and Wales has been pursuing a programme of flood warning system enhancement, engaging householders at risk in improving their warning responses. The immediate aim of this paper is to test and revise a model of economic benefits of warnings, but the survey data also generate insights into the constraints acting upon flood warning responses. Damage saving is less than previously anticipated: warning reliability and householder availability problems limit savings. Warnings are less likely to be received by those in lower social grades, and flood warning lead time is a factor in avoiding damage. The survey data indicate the complexities involved in improving flood warning response, and provide policy pointers. |
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Keywords: | Flood warnings Economic benefits Flood damage Damage savings Warning improvement |
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