Flood Alert Issued for River Itchen in Winchester Following Heavy Rain Forecast

Alert Details

A flood alert has been issued by the Environment Agency for the Winchester Itchen area. This alert, classified as severity level 3, indicates that flooding is possible due to forecast weather conditions.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Solent and South Downs area in Hampshire, specifically focusing on the River Itchen around Winchester. Specific locations identified as being at risk include North Walls Recreation Ground and River Park. Winchester City Council has proactively installed flood barriers at Park Avenue, River Park, and Water Lane. Additionally, the Winnall Moors Nature Reserve may be subject to closure.

What You Should Do

Residents and visitors are advised not to put themselves or others at risk, as flood water in the area could be deep. Local authorities are monitoring rainfall and river levels and are coordinating sluice operations. Residents should stay informed as the situation develops; the Environment Agency expects to provide an update by 6:00 PM on 26 February 2026.

Expected Conditions

While river levels in the Itchen around Winchester are currently falling steadily, a significant weather system is approaching. Forecasts indicate rainfall totals between 10mm and 20mm. This precipitation is expected to reverse the current trend and increase water levels significantly.

Timeline

The weather event is forecast to begin on the evening of Thursday, 26 February 2026, and continue through the morning of Friday, 27 February 2026. Flooding is considered most possible on 27 February. The flood risk is expected to begin diminishing over the course of the weekend.