The Environment Agency has issued flood warnings for parts of rural Hampshire near Eastleigh as much of England is to be battered by heavy rain today.

This comes after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for rain, which is set to come into force at 3pm today, Saturday February 17.

The areas that are set to experience flooding include Hursley, Twyford, Otterbourne and Hensting - between Eastleigh and Winchester.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “Groundwater levels in Twyford and Hensting are high and relatively stable after persistent rain.

“50mm of rain has been recorded at Otterbourne during the last week. We expect isolated properties in Twyford and Hensting are being affected by cellar flooding.

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“If heavy or persistent rain affects the area over the next couple of weeks, groundwater levels will rise, there will be increased water on the road at Hensting Lane and flows in the ditch on Hazeley Road will rise.

“Groundwater levels in Hursley are high but slowly falling.

“Widespread cellar flooding and impacts to the sewerage system are expected to be ongoing.

“We continue to monitor the forecast. If you have pumps to help reduce water levels, please ensure that they are operating.”

Much of Hampshire is to experience flooding from the expected rain and the Met Office has warned that disruption to travel and power supplies is also likely.