These would replace the colour codes, which the report showed were confusing and misunderstood 'by nearly all who received them'. Consumer testing confirmed that the combination of a unique symbol and simple language was the key to encourage people to take action on warnings. The codes were deliberately adopted to be in line with the terminology used by the Met Office to describe other severe weather conditions, which was already well understood by the public. The new four-stage warning system indicates the degree of potential danger from flooding, backed up with clear advice on what to do at each stage. It is an important part of the Agency's drive to give simple, understandable messages that will trigger people to take action to protect themselves, their families and property from the impacts of flooding.
Flooding is possible .
Flooding of homes, businesses and main roads is expected . Severe Flood Warning. Severe flooding is expected. Imminent danger to life and property. There are no Flood Watches or Flood Warnings in force in the area.