Environment Agency issues flood alerts for Christchurch, Ringwood, Brockenhurst, Ower and Cadnam

FLOOD alerts have been issued for four areas of the New Forest and Christchurch today (Tuesday).

The Environment Agency has issued alerts for the Lower Stour and Lower Avon due to recent rainfall, with areas most at risk including tributaries between Wimborne and Christchurch, as well as Ringwood and Christchurch.

It states: “The forecast is mainly dry for today and tomorrow, although there are still some scattered showers passing through the area. We are closely monitoring the situation and checking rivers for blockages.”

There could also be flooding of the Lymington River at Brockenhurst due to a “high and rising” water level. “In the last 24 hours, almost half a month’s rain (29mm) has been recorded in Brockenhurst,” an EA report stated. “From 2pm today the river will be much higher than normal and drainage ditches through the New Forest will be flooding land and roads.”

Some flooding may also occur at Balmer Lawn Road in the village.

The EA said: “In Lymington itself, the river will rise over the next 10 hours, but we do not expect impacts to property. The river should peak around 3pm, remaining high until 4pm, before it will finally reduce.

“We continue to monitor the forecast and ensure the river remains free of any reported blockages.”

An alert has also been issued for the River Blackwater at Ower and Cadnam River in Cadnam due to rising water levels.

Flooding of land, fields and roads in Cadnam, West Wellow, Landford and Ower is expected as river levels are expected to rise until 2pm.

The EA said: “Our operations staff will work to ensure the river remains free of any reported blockages. Please ensure that pumps used to protect property are operating correctly.”

The agency also advises the public to avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses and people should not attempt to walk, cycle or drive through flood water.