Enhanced flood warning system now live to protect Exeter from future flooding

A new and improved flood warning system has gone live in Exeter and across the Exe Estuary, marking a major step forward in protecting thousands of homes and businesses from flood risk.

The Environment Agency confirmed that enhanced flood-forecasting models and expanded warning coverage are now operational, following the completion of advanced post-scheme modelling work. 

The development builds on the success of the multi-million-pound Exeter Flood Defence Scheme, which already provides protection for more than 3,000 homes and businesses in the city.

The improved system refines existing flood-warning areas - expanding them from two to four- to ensure residents and businesses receive more targeted and timely alerts during severe weather events. 

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It also enhances forecasting accuracy for the River Exe and strengthens operational control of Exeter’s 14 flood gates, demountable and temporary barriers, and pumping systems.

The new model even covers complex flood scenarios where river and tidal flooding overlap, particularly downstream of Trews Weir and around the Exe Estuary, areas historically vulnerable to flooding.

Ben Johnstone, Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, said the upgrades represent a major step forward in local flood resilience: “These enhanced flood-warning systems represent a major advancement in how we protect Exeter’s communities,” he said. 

“By combining cutting-edge modelling technology with our comprehensive flood defence infrastructure, we can now provide residents and businesses with more accurate, timely warnings than ever before.”

“This investment ensures that our flood defence scheme delivers maximum protection for the thousands of homes and businesses it serves.”

The Exeter Flood Defence Scheme, developed through a partnership between the Environment Agency, Devon County Council, and Exeter City Council, includes a network of flood gates, barriers, and pumping stations designed to protect the city from river and tidal flooding.

The city has experienced several major floods over the past decades, and experts say climate change could bring more intense rainfall and rising sea levels in the years ahead.

By combining physical defences with advanced modelling and real-time alerts, the Environment Agency hopes to keep Exeter’s residents safer for whatever the weather brings.