A flood warning has been issued for Hedge End with residents urged to protect their homes as river levels continue to rise.

A statement from the Environment Agency says water levels in the streams through Wildern Lane, Hedge End and Botley are high and rising rapidly.

Residents living near the channels have been urged to take action to protect their property.

The statement says: "Currently, rainfall is flooding roads. River channels are full, and in some locations, may be flooding gardens.

"In the next 10 minutes at Hobb Lane and Whitebeam Road, the river could come out of bank and flood property.

"Rain is forecast for the next few hours, so the river could continue to rise and fall throughout this time.

"However, in response to the current rainfall, the river will peak very rapidly, within the next 60 minutes, and the water level will then return to normal over the next 2 hours.

"Our operations staff will ensure that the river remains free of any reported blockages. We continue to monitor the forecast.

"If you live near to the river channels, please take appropriate action to protect property, installing flood protection if you have it."

It comes after heavy rainfall led to flooding across parts of Southampton, including on the M27.

Flooding on the entry slip road at Junction 3 eastbound, which has since been closed by police, has resulted in delays of more than an hour. Traffic is now being diverted westbound.

Millbrook Road West is also submerged by flood water tonight leading to tailbacks.

The areas covered by the flood warning are:

  • Woodhouse Gulley
  • Wildern Lane Stream
  • Marls Road Tributary
  • Hedge End to Botley