Environment Agency issues flood warning for the Lower Stour and Middle Hampshire Avon and alert for Lower Stour and tributaries between Wimborne and Christchurch

FURTHER flooding is expected in the New Forest and parts of Christchurch today (Tuesday).

The Environment Agency has issued flood warnings for the Lower Stour and tributaries between Wimborne and Christchurch, as well as Middle Hampshire Avon and tributaries between Salisbury and Ringwood.

Affected areas include Barrack Road and Willow Way in Christchurch, Blashford in Ringwood, Breamore, and Bickton in Fordingbridge.

The warning states properties could be at risk of flooding due to rising water levels in the River Stour and adds: “Please take action to protect yourself and your property and monitor local weather and river conditions. Avoid walking or driving through flood water [and] consider activating any property flood protection products you may have.”

River levels are also high and rising in the Middle and Lower Avon, with locals advised to avoid using low lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses.

The Environment Agency has also issued less serious flood alerts for the Lower Stour and tributaries between Wimborne and Christchurch, and Middle Hampshire Avon, due to recent heavy rainfall.

The alert states: “We are monitoring the situation and are checking rivers for blockages in the area.”