A charity said its flood rescue teams were poised to respond to emergencies, as the Met Office warns Storm Éowyn will bring strong winds across the UK from Thursday and into Friday.
RSPCA bosses issued advice to pet owners on how to keep their animals safe, warning that most areas of England and Wales were likely to experience the storm.
The Met Office predicted the worst impacts from Storm Éowyn would be felt early on Friday, with strengthening winds initially in south-west of the UK along with heavy rainfall.
This is forecast to quickly spread north-east during Friday morning.
Yellow weather warnings predict heavy rain will move from the west to east – bringing winds of up to 50-60 mph (80-96 kph) while amber weather warnings are in place in some locations where gust of up to 90 mph (145 kph) are possible.
The RSPCA said it had about 30 specially-trained officers and a fleet of emergency rescue boats that can be launched for water rescues.
The teams are trained to operate in fast-flowing and contaminated water, and can be called upon to rescue animals and people as well as providing assistance to communities affected by flooding.
Advice for pet owners
Animal owners are advised to keep an eye on local forecasts and check for warnings, and to take immediate action to ensure the welfare of animals.
RSPCA inspector Jason Finch said: “Floodwater can rise very quickly so if there is a flood warning in your area then act early – make sure you have a plan so that you know how to get your animals out of danger if the worst was to happen and you found yourself caught up in flooding.”
He added: “In areas affected by flooding owners should be looking to bring small animals inside and move them upstairs, while livestock should be taken up to higher ground with enough supplies for their needs.
“Horses or livestock in flooded fields is also a big concern whenever there is heavy rain forecast, so while we’ve not had to launch any rescues yet, we are urging pet owners and farmers to act now to ensure the safety of their animals.
“Wild animals can also struggle in stormy weather but people can help them too.
“For example, they can leave some extra food out for hungry birds above ground level and even provide shelter for ground-nesting birds.”
Top tips
Tips for pet owners during heavy rainfall and flood risk:
- Plan your escape route and keep contact details of people who can help you move your animals in an emergency
- Ensure you can be contacted in an emergency – if you have horses or livestock in field attach your contact details to gates so you can be contacted
- Make sure you have suitable carriers available for small animals and keep a supply of food in case of evacuation
- Bring small animals inside – upstairs if possible – and move food, bedding etc somewhere dry
- Put important documents in a sealed bag along with a photo of the pet incase they get lost and ensure microchip details are up-to-date and registered
- Move livestock and horses to high ground and ensure you have emergency feed and water supplies
- If you have to leave your animals behind, leave them inside an upstairs room with plenty of food and water – leave notices on the outside doors to say there are animals inside and contact us or your local flood warden immediately to arrange rescue
If the worst does happen and if flooding does leave animals in danger, members of the public should be careful not to take risks with their own safety by attempting animal rescues. It is best to leave that to the experts.
The RSPCA’s trained officers are equipped to deal with flood-stricken animals and work as part of Defra’s national flood response to help rescue stranded animals.
Mr Finch added: “Don’t put your own life or another’s life in danger to attempt an animal rescue and instead call us and other response agencies for help in an emergency.”
People can stay informed by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for information and flood warnings 24 hours a day, or online at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.
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