Environment Agency warns of possible flooding in New Milton, Ringwood and Christchurch

There could be flooding in parts of the New Forest and Christchurch today (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.

As a result of prolonged, heavy rain, the riverbanks could flood, along with roads and low lying land.

It is warning people to avoid walking, cycling or driving through floodwater.

And Becton Bunny in Barton is also at risk, the EA confirmed.

An EA spokesperson said: “In Hampshire, heavy rain is forecast through to the afternoon.

“Currently, there is low confidence in where the heaviest rain will fall geographically. Most locations in Hampshire could see up to 40mm of rain, with a possibility of 30mm falling in one hour. In some isolated locations, up to 80mm of rain could be possible.”

It added: “If this volume of rain is recorded in New Milton, then this could cause the Becton Bunny to flood. Due to the small size of the river channel, flooding can occur within as little as 20 minutes from the start of the heaviest rainfall.

“If intense rainfall does affect the river, causing it to come out of bank, then we will issue further advice. However, if the river is rising rapidly, this may not give much time to take effective action. This period of heightened flood risk should reduce by Saturday.”

A yellow weather warning for heavy rain, issued by the Met Office on Wednesday, has been extended until midnight.

As a result, spray and flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures.

It is also warning of a “slight” chance of power cuts and loss of other services to some homes and businesses. Delays or cancellations could be seen on train and bus services.