Flooding expected at Iford Bridge Home Park on Old Bridge Road, Christchurch, today (Wednesday) warns Environment Agency

FLOODING is expected in parts of Christchurch today (Wednesday) the Environment Agency is warning, as residents are urged to take action.

Due to rising river levels on the Lower Dorset Stour, flooding is expected to affect Iford Bridge Home Park on Old Bridge Road.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Residents are strongly urged to take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather and river conditions.

“Avoid contact with, walking or driving through flood water [and] consider activating any property flood protection products you may have.”

People and pets should move to a safe place and cars or other vehicles taken to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.

The organisation also advises packing an overnight bag in case of evacuation.

This should include a torch with spare batteries, mobile phone and charger, warm clothes, home insurance information, water, food, a first aid kit and any prescription medicines or baby care items.

Gas, electricity and water mains supplies should be turned off before flood water begins to enter.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for Landford and Cadnam due to higher than normal water levels in the River Blackwater at Ower and Cadnam River.

Although levels have reduced “significantly” over the last 24 hours, it says some residual impacts of ponded water on fields and roads is likely to continue.

With further heavy rain forecast on Thursday, further flooding could occur.

It added: “Our operations staff will work to ensure the rivers remains free of any reported blockages.”

For more information visit https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/target-area/065WAF113 or call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.