THE Environment Agency is updating its flood risk maps to better inform Thurrock residents of the risk of flooding.

The agency looked at recent flooding in the borough and the maps will now raise awareness of flooding risks so people, communities, businesses and relevant agencies and authorities can take action to reduce the risk.

The maps already show flood risks from rivers, the sea and from reservoirs.

The council will be holding a consultation in January to find out people’s experiences of flooding and their views about potential options to reduce its impact in the future.

Flooding has recently affected businesses in Stanford-le-Hope whilst Thurrock’s roads were also flooded in places.

Thurrock Council has been working with partners including Anglian Water, the Environment Agency, Essex Fire and Rescue Service and highways agencies to raise awareness of areas that are at risk and help people to be better prepared.

According to 2010 data, around 21,000 properties could be at risk of surface water flooding in Thurrock, with many of them unaware of the potential problem.

Sign up to receive an email update about the consultation at www.thurrock.gov.uk/account and to find out if your property is at risk of flooding and for information on how you can prepare for a flood go online to www.environment-agency.gov.uk