Flood Alert Issued for River Lavant in West Sussex Following Weeks of Rain

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert (Severity Level 3) for the River Lavant. This alert follows several weeks of persistent rainfall that has left river levels significantly elevated across the region.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically covers the River Lavant area within West Sussex, part of the Solent and South Downs region. Minor flood impacts are currently affecting fields, roads, and gardens in the vicinity of the river.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised not to put themselves or others at risk. Specifically, avoid using roads that are known to flood, such as Sheepwash Lane. Any observed blockages in the river should be reported to the Environment Agency at 0800 80 70 60. The agency is currently operating structures in Westhampnett as part of the Flood Alleviation Scheme to manage water levels.

Expected Conditions

A small amount of light rain (less than 5mm) is expected on Sunday morning, which is likely to cause only a minimal rise in river levels. Conditions are expected to clear by Sunday afternoon, with only isolated showers predicted from Monday through Friday.

Timeline

The alert was officially raised on February 22, 2026. While river levels are expected to begin a slow decline starting Tuesday, February 24, 2026, they are forecast to remain higher than normal for several weeks. Further periods of flood risk remain possible if additional rainfall occurs while levels are high. This message is scheduled for an update by 20:00 on February 23, 2026.