Public Health Wales: Flooding 'biggest climate-related health risk'
Around one in seven properties are at risk of flooding in Wales, according to latest figures from Natural Resources Wales
An increase in flood risk is one of the biggest climate-related health risks in Wales, with Public Health Wales urging people to be prepared and giving advice on how to find out if you are at risk and what to do next.
Around one in seven properties are at risk of flooding in Wales, according to latest figures from Natural Resources Wales
... With this number expected to rise as climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme rainfall events, making preparation even more important for the years ahead.
Recent flooding in Monmouth continues to have an impact with many businesses still unable to open as clear up operations continue- the health body says this has financial impacts for locals but also impacts their mental health and wellbeing.
Clair Beard, owner of the Robin Hood pub, said she still has flashbacks to the moment flood waters arrived during the early hours of 15 November 2025.
The pub was not only Clair’s business, but also her home.
Clair was stuck inside the top floor for 12 hours, unable to get out:
She said, “Mentally it is still very traumatic for me to think about what happened. I have daily flashbacks of the water coming in.
"When it started, we were clearing up the bar, but by the time we made it to our stairs, water was already rising up them. My first thoughts were, am I going to get out of this? Am I actually going to survive? Unless you experience it, you would never believe how scary it can be. I still think about it every day.”
“when dealing with floods, there are three stages to consider: before, during and after"
Professor Sarah Jones, Consultant in Environmental Health Protection at Public Health Wales, said “It is normal to feel stressed or anxious if you are affected by flooding and it is important to seek mental health support if it continues.
"However, if the public can be aware of the practical steps that they can take to understand their flood risk and what they should have ready if they are flooded, it will help improve health outcomes for those affected.”
She continued: “We want people across Wales to stay safe from the health harms of climate change by understanding the risks and consider preparing things like a flood kit or pack to keep in their homes in case of an emergency. This could include things like a blanket, torch, medication and supplies for children. Our priority is to protect people and communities from the health risks of climate change.”
Public Health Wales' advice for flooding:
- Sign up to flood alerts in your area
- Move valuable items upstairs if possible, to minimize loss of important documents or irreplaceable sentimental items
- Avoid contact with flood water as much as possible. Do not allow children or pets to play in floodwaters. There may be hidden trip hazards, utility hole covers pushed open or loose electrical cables.
- If you must go into the water, wear waterproof gloves, rubber boots, and remember to be careful of hidden dangers.
- Do not switch on electrical appliances that may have been in contact with floodwater until a qualified electrician has checked them as there is a risk of electrocution.
- Try to become familiar with the nature of the flooding event, identify how those affected can access help and whether there are flood risks in the future.
- Check that they are safe and help them to make contact with flood recovery agencies if needed.
- Check that there are no immediate physical health needs. If it is an emergency, seek medical help.