The number of properties in England at risk of flooding has risen to 6.3 million, nearly 15% higher than the 5.5 million reported in 2018, according to new data released by the Environment Agency.
The findings highlight growing concerns about the future insurability and marketability of homes as the impacts of climate change intensify.
The report comes in the wake of Storm Darragh earlier this month and follows prolonged heavy rainfall over last autumn and winter, which left many homeowners facing ongoing issues.
The increase in flood-risk properties is partly attributed to improved access to data and enhanced surface water risk assessments. Surface water flooding occurs when rain overwhelms drainage systems, leading to flash floods. According to the agency, 1.1 million properties are now considered at high risk from surface water, with nearly a third of those located in London.
Bloomberg noted that London properties, however, are less exposed to river flooding due to the Thames Barrier, a system of 10 steel gates in the east of the city designed to prevent water from breaching the riverbanks.
The analysis also takes into account the projected impact of climate change for the first time. It estimates that by mid-century, eight million properties – roughly one in four – could be at risk of flooding across England.
While many homes at risk are currently eligible for cover through Flood Re, a government-backed insurance scheme, the programme is scheduled to end in 2039. Additionally, properties built after 2009 are excluded from Flood Re, leaving newly constructed homes without access to this form of protection.
Floods Minister Emma Hardy said the government remains committed to investing in flood resilience measures.
“We have committed £2.4 billion (US$3 billion) over the next two years to maintain, repair and build flood defences across the country,” Hardy said.
Earlier this month, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) reassured homeowners and businesses that their insurers will be ready to help and support their clients affected by Storm Darragh.
Storm Darragh is the fourth named storm of the season following Bert and Connall in November.
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