Flood Alert Issued for Combe Haven in East Sussex as Heavy Rain Forecast

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Combe Haven area within the Solent and South Downs region. This alert was raised on February 17, 2026, in response to high river levels and a forecast of significant rainfall.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically covers the Combe Haven area in East Sussex. Key locations that may be impacted include:

• Riverside properties on Forewood Lane
• Areas near the Crowhurst Recreation Ground
• Bexhill Road Recreation Ground and adjacent gardens
• Properties and land near the Combe Haven river

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are advised to take the following precautions:

• Consider activating any flood protection products you may have.
• Residents in Crowhurst should install flood protection products immediately.
• Monitor local weather reports and updates from the Environment Agency.
• The situation is being closely monitored, and an update is expected by 8:00 PM on February 18, 2026.

Expected Conditions

Forecasters expect between 15mm and 25mm of rain to fall between Wednesday and Thursday, with 20mm being the most likely scenario. These conditions will lead to high river levels. If rainfall exceeds the current forecast, further isolated property flooding may occur.

Timeline

• Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (6:00 PM): Flooding could begin affecting riverside properties on Forewood Lane and near Crowhurst Recreation Ground.
• Thursday, February 19, 2026 (6:00 AM): Flooding could affect Bexhill Road Recreation Ground and gardens backing onto the Combe Haven.
• Thursday Afternoon: River levels are expected to peak in Crowhurst.
• Thursday Evening: River levels are expected to peak in Bulverhythe.
• Friday, February 20, 2026: River levels are expected to continue falling throughout the day.