Rope Walk in Littlehampton at serious risk of flooding

West Bank in Littlehampton, which is near to where the flooding is expected to hit

A flood warning has been issued for the area – the second highest category beneath a severe flood warning, the latter being deemed to present a risk to life.

The flooding at the Rope Walk is expected to hit at 12.30pm today (Friday, January 3).

The Environment Agency has said the industrial units along the Rope Walk are likely to be flooded, as are the riverside properties.

Tides are expected to remain high over the weekend but not as high as today.

Firefighters were called to reduce water levels by properties at River Road, Littlehampton, between 12.16 and 2.16am this morning.

Water from the Arun had threatened to flood properties before the water levels were reduced using a light portable pump.

Salvage work was carried out by the firefighters who also gave advice to the occupiers.

The lower Arun has also been placed on flood alert, a less serious classification of risk which recommends people in the area to be prepared for flooding.

River levels from Pulborough to Littlehampton will also rise from mid morning until approximately 2pm today, while high tide raises river levels and will impede flow out to the area.

River levels are only expected to rise slightly from the levels of last night (Thursday) and should stay within bank, the Environment Agency said.

However, levels by will be high and flooding is possible at Arundel, Ford, Houghton Bridge and Pulborough.

Further rain is also forecast over the weekend.