Flood Warning Issued for Lower Frome from East Stoke to 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 indicates that flooding is currently expected in the region following recent rainfall and high groundwater levels.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the Wessex area within the jurisdiction of the Dorset Council. Specific geographic regions and communities at the highest risk include:

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

What You Should Do

Residents in the warning area should immediately activate any flood protection products they have. For personal safety, do not attempt to walk, cycle, or drive through flood water. The Environment Agency emphasizes that just 30cm of fast-flowing water is enough to move a car.

Expected Conditions

River levels remain high at the Stinsford and East Stoke gauges on the Dorset Frome. Additional rain is forecast starting today and continuing through tomorrow morning, which may cause river levels to rise further over the coming days.

Timeline

The alert was officially raised at 2:55 PM on February 18, 2026. The Environment Agency is monitoring the situation and will provide an update by 3:00 PM on February 19, 2026, or as conditions change.