FLOOD warnings have been issued for several parts of Hampshire as rain batters the south coast.
The Gov's Flood Information Service has put out alerts for the River Blackwater near Romsey, the Lower Avon (and tributaries) around Ringwood, Bransgrove and Highcliffe, and also the Lower Meon near Stubbington and Titchfield.
The service warns that "flooding is possible" at these sites, and that locals should "be prepared".
The alert put out is the lowest of a three tiered system, which ranks from "be prepared", to "immediate action required" and then finally "danger to life".
This is what the warnings say:
- River Blackwater
Flooding is possible - be prepared
"The water level in the River Blackwater is now falling steadily. This morning, December 28, through to early evening, up to 18mm of rain is forecast. This will cause the river to rise again, potentially in excess of the levels reached overnight. Water levels could therefore become very high around the Mill building at Wellow.
"Flooding of low lying land is expected to continue.
"Tomorrow December 29 it is forecast to be a drier day, but Wednesday through to Friday will see a return to unsettled weather.
"Please ensure that any pumps used to protect property from flooding can operate.
"We’ll ensure the River Blackwater is kept free of blockages and continue to monitor the forecast."
- Lower Meon
Flooding is possible - be prepared
"The water level in the Lower Meon remains very high but stable. Continued flooding of fields and gardens is expected at Titchfield, Titchfield Mill, Bridge Cottage and the Tanneries Industrial Estate.
"This morning, December 28, through to early evening, up to 18mm of rain is forecast. This will maintain the high river level over the coming days and possibly increase levels further, so please remain vigilant.
"Tomorrow it is forecast to be a drier day, but Wednesday through to Friday will see a return to unsettled weather.
"Our operational staff will be operating sluices and ensuring that reported blockages are removed. Please ensure you can take appropriate action to protect property, if required."
- Lower Avon and tributaries
Flooding is possible - be prepared
"River levels have risen at the Ringwood Old Cottage river gauge as a result of the rainfall that came with Storm Bella.
"Consequently, flooding of roads and farmland is possible. Areas most at risk are tributaries between Ringwood and Christchurch. Further showery rainfall is forecast over the next 24 hours. River levels can rise very quickly in response to heavy rainfall.
"We are closely monitoring the situation. Our incident response staff are checking defences.
"Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers which may be flooded and refer to local authority website for local road closures."
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