Flood Alert Issued for Rivers Wid and Can in Essex Following Recent Rainfall

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Alert (Severity Level 3) for the Rivers Wid and Can. This alert indicates that flooding is possible due to rising river levels following recent rainfall in the region.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically covers the Rivers Wid and Can within the county of Essex in East Anglia. Areas identified as being at the highest risk include:

• Low-lying roads and riverside areas.
• Lordship Lane and Cow Watering Lane in the vicinity of Writtle College.

What You Should Do

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

• Take care when near riverside locations.
• Avoid walking, cycling, or driving through flood water.
• Monitor local conditions and stay informed on river level changes.

Expected Conditions

River levels are expected to rise throughout the afternoon of February 15, 2026. This increase is a direct result of recent rainfall. The Environment Agency is currently monitoring both rainfall and river levels to assess the ongoing risk to the community.

Timeline

The alert was raised on the afternoon of February 15, 2026. Officials state that this message will be updated by 10:00 AM on February 16, 2026, or sooner if the situation changes significantly.