Flood Alert Issued for Lower Stour and Tributaries in Dorset and Hampshire

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Alert for the Lower Stour and its tributaries. This alert, classified as severity level 3, indicates that flooding is possible in the Wessex area following recent heavy rainfall.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Lower Stour and its tributaries, specifically impacting locations between Wimborne and Christchurch. The geographic scope includes:

• Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
• Dorset Council
• Hampshire

The primary watercourses affected are the River Allen and the River Stour.

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. Just 30cm of fast-flowing water is enough to move a vehicle.
• Monitor local authority websites for information regarding road closures.

Expected Conditions

River levels remain high due to recent rainfall. While no further rainfall is forecast over the next couple of days, flooding is expected to continue affecting low-lying land and roads. The Environment Agency is continuing to monitor the situation.

Timeline

The alert was raised at 3:17 PM on February 16, 2026. The Environment Agency expects to provide an update by 4:00 PM on February 17, 2026, or sooner if the situation changes.