Abstract
Discusses the results of evaluations of flood forecasting, warning
and response systems in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Reveals that in England and Wales flood warning systems often
underperform. Despite technical sophistication and their elevation to
high priority in central government′s flood defence strategy,
arrangements for flood warnings are now under considerable stress
because of lack of agreement over organizational roles and
responsibilities. Legal ambiguities, funding difficulties and
ideological positions lie behind these problems. Flood warning systems
are developing in Scotland, and there is now a “fledgling”
system in Northern Ireland, but both lag behind England and Wales.
Examines implications for the future.