Environment Agency issues flood alert for Lower Avon between Ringwood and Christchurch tomorrow due to overnight rain

THERE could be flooding in parts of the New Forest tomorrow (Friday) after heavy rain overnight.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Lower Avon between Ringwood and Christchurch due to rising water levels in rivers and streams.

Flooding of roads and low lying land is possible, with areas most at risk including tributaries between Ringwood and Christchurch.

The Met Office has also updated its yellow weather warning for rain, which was brought forward from 5pm to 6am this morning (Thursday) and ends at 9am on Friday.

It says there is a slight chance of power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses, as well as cancellations to train and bus services

Spray and flooding could also lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

The warning states: “Whilst some areas will miss the worst, heavy showers and some thunderstorms will occur during today, potentially becoming more organised across a swathe of Wales and into central and eastern England.”

It adds some areas may see up 20-30mm of rain in two to three hours, with the possibility of 40-60mm in three to six hours.