Flood warning issued

Forecasts of heavy rain could affect areas of Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and residents are advised to be vigilant.

Weather conditions are expected to be unsettled for the rest of the week, with potentially intense rain falling on already saturated ground from tonight.

For earlier news of gales forecast, click here

Following the wet weather last week, further heavy rainfall is likely to increase river levels, leading to flooding of low-lying land and roads, as well as increasing the risk of groundwater flooding.

Regular updates to the weather forecast are being received from the Met Office and Environment Agency teams are closely monitoring river and groundwater levels as well as tidal conditions. There is the possibility that the Environment Agency will need to issue a number of Flood Alerts and Flood Warnings throughout the week.

Andrew Gilham, Environment Agency flood and coastal risk manager, said: “With more unsettled weather forecast across Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight all this week, we want communities to remain alert to the threat of flooding.

“The outlook for the next few days is thankfully very different to the severe weather conditions and widespread flooding experienced last winter. However those who live in an area vulnerable to flooding should be thinking about the precautions they can take to limit the damage a flood can cause to themselves and their property.

“We continue to monitor the situation closely, working alongside partners, including the Met Office and local authorities, and will issue alerts and warnings as required.”

The Environment Agency provides a 24-hour flood warning service. Floodline Warnings Direct is a free service that gives advance warning of flooding by telephone, mobile, fax or pager.

To register for the service or for advice on things you can do to limit the damage to your property call Floodline on 0345 988 1188, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Further advice and latest information on flood warnings is also available at https://www.gov.uk/check-if-youre-at-risk-of-flooding