Flood Alert Issued for Lower Itchen as Heavy Rain Impacts Hampshire and Southampton

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Alert for the Lower Itchen river area. This alert, classified as severity level 3, was raised on the morning of Sunday, February 15, 2026, due to high river levels and forecast rainfall.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Lower Itchen area within the Solent and South Downs region, specifically affecting parts of Hampshire and Southampton. Specific locations currently experiencing impacts or at risk include:

• Bishopstoke: Bishopstoke Road Playing Fields and potentially some residential gardens.
• Eastleigh: The top of Duttons Lane and Withy Meadows.

What You Should Do

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

• Consider activating any available flood protection products for your property.
• Monitor local weather reports and river level updates.
• The Environment Agency is currently monitoring rainfall and river levels and is managing sluices at Bishopstoke and Stoke Lock to mitigate impacts.

Expected Conditions

Approximately 15mm of rain is forecast for Sunday, February 15. River levels are expected to rise throughout the afternoon and evening. Flooding is already continuing to affect playing fields and meadows in the region. Officials warn that river levels and the associated flood risk will likely remain high for the next few weeks.

Timeline

The alert is effective immediately as of February 15, 2026. Further rainfall is forecast for Tuesday, February 17, and Wednesday, February 18. The Environment Agency expects to provide an updated message regarding these conditions by 6:00 PM on February 17, 2026.