The Chair of South Lanarkshire Council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Robert Brown, said: “When we think of winter, most people immediately associate the season with snow, ice and low temperatures.

“Although it is, of course, important to be aware of the risks these conditions can cause, we must also remember that flooding caused by severe rainfall can also pose significant risks.

“During severe flooding, we work with colleagues in the police and fire services to assess the situation.

“If necessary, we can co-ordinate reception centres and even arrange temporary accommodation if people need to be evacuated from their homes.”

If you have any concerns about flooding, you can call the council at any time on 0800 24 20 24, or you can contact your local council office during working hours.

Flood alerts are provided by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) who also work with police and councils to identify flood risks.

Other agencies are also involved in flood risk-management and deal with floods as they happen, while the Scottish Government sets policies at national level. In addition, a community-based organisation, the Scottish Flood Forum, supports and represents those at risk of flooding.

Further information on flooding is available from the council’s flooding advice and support pages.