Flood Warning Issued for Lower Frome Between East Stoke and Wareham

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Warning (Severity Level 2) for the Lower Frome from East Stoke to Wareham. This alert follows recent rainfall and high groundwater levels affecting the Dorset Frome river system.

Affected Areas

The warning covers several locations within the Dorset Council area under the Wessex regional office. Specific areas most at risk include:

• East Stoke
• Holmebridge
• Stoborough and Stoborough Green
• Wareham
• Redcliffe
• Ridge
• Swineham

What You Should Do

Residents in the warning area are advised to take the following precautions:

• Activate flood protection: Deploy any flood protection products you may have on your property.
• Avoid flood water: Do not attempt to walk, cycle, or drive through flood water. Officials warn that just 30cm of fast-flowing water is enough to move a car.
• Stay informed: Monitor local conditions as the situation develops.

Expected Conditions

River levels remain high at the Stinsford and East Stoke gauges due to recent rainfall and high groundwater. While additional rain is expected today and tomorrow, the forecast totals are currently expected to be very low. The Environment Agency continues to monitor the situation closely.

Timeline

This flood warning was updated at 1:52 PM on February 21, 2026. The Environment Agency expects to provide a further update by 3:30 PM on February 22, 2026, or as the situation changes.