Heavy rain prompts multiple flood alerts for Isle of Wight

Flooding at Alverstone earlier this month <i>(Image: Noah Ford-Sleight)</i>
Flooding at Alverstone earlier this month (Image: Noah Ford-Sleight)
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Heavy, persistent rain is triggering multiple flood alerts across the Isle of Wight today (Wednesday, February 18), as a yellow weather warning comes into force.

The IW Met Service says a large area of heavy rain moved up from the south at 2pm today, lasting into the night.

Some places could see 20-30mm of rain in just a few hours, and up to 40mm in the worst-affected spots.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain until 8am tomorrow (Thursday).

The Environment Agency has issued several flood alerts around the Island today. See below.


Gurnard Luck

Flooding is possible around Marsh Road in Gurnard, where up to 25mm of further rain is expected, and high tides will slow the river’s ability to drain.

River levels are expected to rise through tonight’s high tide at around 11.45pm and again around midday tomorrow.

Islanders are being urged to avoid low‑lying paths and bridges, including Marsh Road.


Lukely Brook, Newport

High levels at Lukely Brook mean flooding is possible today between Carisbrooke and Newport, with up to 25mm of additional rain forecast.

If the forecast totals are reached, the brook could come out of the bank at Foxes Lane and affect the Aquatics Centre, as well as footpaths and riverside areas near Old Westminster Lane.

Residents near Vicarage Walk are being advised to consider using flood protection measures.


River Medina

A flood alert is in force on the River Medina from Blackwater towards Newport, where high river levels and further rain could lead to flooding.

Flooding could affect land, gardens and possibly roads at Blackwater, particularly Blackwater Hollow on the A3020 near Mill Farm and Sandy Lane, while levels may become very high around St George’s Way in Shide.


Eastern Yar

At the Eastern Yar, 25mm of rain and already high river levels mean flooding is affecting Golf Links Road and Morton Common Road, and drains and ditches around Fort Holiday Park are struggling to cope.

Further heavy rain could see low‑lying land, roads, cycle tracks and footpaths along the river flood, with the river close to bank‑full at Langbridge and Alverstone and garden flooding possible at Nicholas Close in Brading.


St Johns, Ryde (Monktonmead Brook)

In Ryde, a flood alert covers Monktonmead Brook at St Johns, where high river levels and up to 25mm of rain today mean flooding could affect the railway tracks upstream of St Johns station.

Flooding of the station buildings is not currently expected, but residents are being advised to move vehicles from depots next to the railway line and brook and to consider using any flood protection products they have.

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