RESIDENTS in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire are being told to be prepared for winter flooding after figures revealed thousands of homes could be at risk.

The new National Flood Risk Assessment, carried out by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), reveals that 284,000 properties in Scotland are vulnerable to rising river and sea levels.

This is more than twice as many as the 108,000 properties found to be under threat in 2011 and 2015.

Experts at SEPA said the rise was largely down to improved modelling and knowledge, rather than an increased physical risk.

Steve McFarland, of SEPA’s flood risk planning and policy team, said: “Scientific knowledge and understanding of flood risk is constantly evolving. Better data and access to improved mapping and modelling has advanced our understanding of the location of properties at risk.

“This means SEPA and its partners are better able to reduce the risk to people, properties, businesses, communities, infrastructure and the environment from the potential impact of future increased flooding.”

Despite the new technology improving understanding, the organisation has stressed that, with climate change, the flood risk will only increase.

It is estimated that an additional 110,000 properties – including many in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire – could be at risk by 2080.

This equates to one in eight homes and one in five businesses, compared to one in 11 homes and one in seven businesses at present.

For that reason, SEPA is encouraging people to recognise the risk now and take action to reduce the impact that flooding could have on their lives. 

When Storm Frank hit Scotland three years ago, it caused widespread flooding. More than 100 flood warnings were issued and SEPA’s 24/7 contact centre received more than 3,300 calls. 

Stewart Prodger, of SEPA, added: “Being flooded can be a life-changing event and, with so many homes and businesses at risk of flooding, especially during the winter months, it’s important to have the appropriate measures in place to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

A list of flood risk warning areas can be viewed online at floodline.sepa.org.uk/floodupdates/quickdialcodes/.