People living across south London could soon receive text messages that will warn of any potential risk of flooding that maybe caused by the extreme weather.

The Environment Agency will be sending out messages this week to ask if residents would like to register for the free flood warning service.

Mark Douch, Area flood risk manager at the Environment Agency, said:“Being registered for flood warnings can give people vital advance notice of flooding and crucial time to prepare.

“If you get a welcome text this week, it is because you live in an area at risk of flooding, so we would urge people to stay registered to the service and learn what to do if you receive a warning by viewing our free flood guide at https://flood-warninginformation.service.gov.uk/what-to-do-in-a-flood.”

People on the Vodafone mobile network who live in areas at risk of flooding will receive the automated text message informing them that they have been signed up. The message will include a link to let them know what they should do if they receive a flood warning, and the option to opt out.

Once registered, people will receive a message directly to their mobile if a flood warning is issued for their area in the future – giving them vital time to prepare and access to key advice.