Flood chaos across the south following weather warning
Otterbourne near Winchester saw 35.2mm of rain fall in just a few hours
Dozens of flood warnings are in force across the south after the region was battered by hours of heavy rain yesterday (Thursday 4th January) and overnight.
Today, the Environment Agency has issued 21 flood warnings in Dorset, nine in Salisbury, 18 in Hampshire, three on the Isle of Wight and 13 across West and East Sussex.
The highest rainfall totals recorded on Thursday were 35.2mm at Otterbourne near Winchester, with a wide range of 20-30mm across much of the southern counties of England.
Last night, the deluge of surface water caused chaos on the roads during rush hour as people battled to get home.
There were closures on a number of major roads including on the M27 between junctions 7 and 5, the M3 entrance southbound at junction 3 and the A31.
Hampshire Police said there were also traffic issues on the A272 and A31 between Winchester and East Hampshire, and had received reports across the county of vehicles travelling through fords and becoming stuck.
This morning, Thomas Lewis Way in Southampton is being inspected after that was closed.
In Swanage, Shore Road has been shut after the power of the rain damaged the drainage system.
Roads in Christchurch, Lyndhurst, Fordingbridge, Totton and Titchfield remain underwater this morning.
Motorists are being told not to drive through it as it could damage your engine.
On the Isle of Wight, sand bags are being distributed for those in need on:
- Well Road, East Cowes
- Simeon Street Recreation Ground, Ryde
- St Mary's Car Park, Cowes
The Environment Agency said ongoing impacts are likely across much of England over the next five days.
It comes after disruption caused by strong winds and rain from Storm Henk earlier in the week, which has left the ground saturated and more prone to flooding.