Isle of Wight flood alert extended for Eastern Yar

Floodwater engulfing Morton Common near Sandown <i>(Image: IWCP)</i>
Floodwater engulfing Morton Common near Sandown (Image: IWCP)
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A flood alert on the Isle of Wight has been extended, with high river levels expected to continue over the next two days.

The Environment Agency warning for the Eastern Yar has now been in place for more than a week, as persistent weather keeps water levels elevated in the area.

Further rainfall of up to 18mm is forecast on today (Sunday, February 22), increasing the risk of flooding.

The agency says flooding is impacting Golf Links Road and Morton Common Road, while ditches around Fort Holiday Park are struggling to drain due to sustained high river levels.

At Langbridge and Alverstone, the river is expected to run close to bank full, raising the risk to nearby low-lying land.

Garden flooding at Nicholas Close in Brading is also possible.

The agency has warned that if Sunday’s forecast rain materialises, flooding could affect low-lying land, roads, cycle tracks and footpaths close to the river.

From tomorrow (Monday, February 23) through to Wednesday (February 25), minimal rainfall of up to 1mm per day is currently forecast.

This is expected to give river levels an opportunity to recede.

The agency said it is continuing to check rivers for blockages and is operating the Bembridge sluices to help manage water levels.

Residents in affected areas, including Alverstone, are being advised to consider activating any flood protection products they have in place.

The flood alert is expected be updated by 6pm tomorrow.

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