Flood Alert Issued for Upper Stour and Tributaries in Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Upper Stour and its tributaries. This alert, designated for the Wessex area, was raised on February 19, 2026, due to high river levels that may lead to flooding.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Upper Stour and its tributaries, including the River Stour, River Lodden, and River Shreen. Specific geographic regions affected include:

• Counties: Dorset Council, Somerset, and Wiltshire.
• Specific Locations: Tributaries between Gillingham and Sturminster Newton are identified as the areas most at risk.

What You Should Do

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

• Take care when traveling near watercourses.
• Avoid walking, cycling, or driving through flood water.
• Monitor local conditions as the situation develops.

Expected Conditions

High river levels are currently being observed. While flooding is possible today, the Environment Agency reports that there is very little rain forecast for the remainder of the day. Officials expect to see river levels begin to drop later this afternoon.

Timeline

The alert is effective as of February 19, 2026. River levels are expected to start dropping by 3:00 PM this afternoon. The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the situation and will provide an update by 10:00 AM on February 20, 2026, or sooner if conditions change significantly.