Flood Warning Issued for Fittleworth on the Western River Rother in West Sussex

Alert Details

A Flood Warning (Severity Level 2) has been issued by the Environment Agency for Fittleworth on the Western River Rother. This alert indicates that flooding is expected and immediate action may be required.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers Fittleworth in West Sussex, within the Solent and South Downs area. Impacted locations include fields along the West Sussex River Rother, Fittleworth Mill, and nearby residential properties. The B2138 Lower Street road over the river is also expected to be affected by flood water.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised not to put themselves or others at risk. Avoid using roads that are prone to flooding, particularly the B2138 through Fittleworth. Monitor local conditions and stay away from swollen riverbanks.

Expected Conditions

High river levels are the result of approximately 30mm of rainfall that occurred on Wednesday. Conditions are expected to cause extensive flooding of fields. Flood water is projected to be very close to affecting the interior of Fittleworth Mill and will be in close proximity to nearby properties. The severity is anticipated to be similar to, or potentially slightly higher than, the event recorded on February 6, 2026. Only isolated showers are forecast for Friday afternoon and Saturday evening.

Timeline

Flooding is expected to commence at approximately 03:00 on February 20, 2026. River levels and the associated flood risk are forecast to begin reducing by 10:00 on the same day. While flood impacts are expected to ease by Friday evening, river levels will remain higher than normal throughout the weekend. The Environment Agency will provide an update by 8:00 PM on February 20, 2026.