Flood Alert Issued for Lower Avon and Tributaries Across Dorset and Hampshire

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Lower Avon and its tributaries within the Wessex area. The alert was officially raised at 9:21 AM on February 21, 2026, following a period of elevated river levels. This is classified as a severity level 3 flood alert.

Affected Areas

The geographic scope of this alert includes Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Dorset Council, and Hampshire. Specific areas at risk include the tributaries between Ringwood and Christchurch. Low-lying land and roads near rivers are particularly vulnerable, especially in the vicinity of Ringwood Old Cottage.

What You Should Do

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

• Avoid using low-lying footpaths and any bridges near local watercourses.
• Do not attempt to walk, cycle, or drive through flood water.
• Exercise extreme caution near rivers, as just 30cm of fast-flowing water is enough to move a vehicle.

Expected Conditions

Current observations indicate that river levels are dropping but remain higher than normal. The Lower Avon remains highly responsive to further precipitation. While forecast rainfall totals for today and tomorrow are expected to be low, they may still cause a reaction in river levels and affect low-lying land and roads.

Timeline

This alert is currently in effect as of February 21, 2026. The Environment Agency will continue to monitor the situation and expects to provide an update by 10:00 AM on February 22, 2026, or sooner if conditions change significantly.