Flood Alert Issued for River Uck in East Sussex Following Persistent Rainfall

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the River Uck catchment area. This level 3 severity alert was officially raised on February 15, 2026, due to ongoing persistent rainfall in the region.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically covers the Solent and South Downs area within East Sussex. Geographic focus remains on the River Uck, with specific impacts noted for:

• Buxted
• Uckfield
• Isfield

What You Should Do

Residents in Buxted and Isfield are advised to consider activating any flood protection products they may have on hand. While current impacts are expected to be minor, those living in isolated riverside properties should monitor local conditions closely.

Expected Conditions

Persistent rain is forecast to continue through the afternoon of February 15. While only a small rise in river levels is currently expected, flood impacts are likely to affect fields and rural roads. Starting from 15:00 on February 15, water may approach the gardens of isolated riverside properties in the affected communities.

Timeline

• Rainfall Duration: Persistent rain is expected to continue until 17:00 on February 15, 2026.
• River Peaks: Levels in Buxted are expected to peak and begin falling by 22:00 on February 15. In Isfield, levels are not expected to fall until approximately 06:00 on February 16.
• Short-term Outlook: Isolated showers are forecast for Monday and Tuesday, which should allow river levels to return toward normal.
• Long-term Outlook: Widespread rain is forecast for Wednesday, February 18, which may cause flood risks to return. Unsettled weather is expected to continue throughout the remainder of February.
• Next Update: The Environment Agency will provide an updated message by 20:00 on February 16, 2026.