Rescue operations underway as West Sussex river breaks its banks
The River Arun has burst its banks in West Sussex
Last updated 9th Apr 2024
Emergency services are dealing with severe flooding in West Sussex after the River Arun burst its banks.
A number of people have had to be rescued from a holiday park in Selsey with one rushed to hospital after showing signs of hypothermia.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service have warned people in Littlehampton of severe floodwaters in the wake of Storm Kathleen.
People are being urged to get to higher ground if possible with several crews on site helping - those who can't leave their homes should call 999 for help.
The ambulance service says it also has teams on the ground to help with rescue operations in Ferry Road and Rope Walk.
"get as high as possible"
West Sussex Fire and Rescue tell us they're working against the clock to protect people in Littlehampton and help limit the severe flooding in the area.
"Residents should remain in their properties if it is safe to do so and get as high as possible within their homes."
They said anyone requiring lifesaving intervention should dial 999 to contact the fire and rescue service or the coastguard.
"Please avoid the area and remain in your homes where possible to allow our crews to work safely," the emergency service said.
They were also dealing with a "severe flooding incident" at Medmerry holiday park between Bracklesham and Selsey.
They urged anyone in the vicinity of the holiday park to get to high ground if they are able to leave their homes.
The emergency update comes as heavy rain and strong winds continue to batter parts of southern England, western Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland over the next few days, forecasters have said.
The Met Office issued six separate yellow weather warnings spanning Monday to Wednesday morning.
A yellow weather warning for England's southern coast, including Southampton and Brighton, says winds are expected to reach 45-55mph, peaking at 65mph in some areas before easing off from 9am on Tuesday.
The weather service warned rain and wind could cause disruption to rail and road travel across the country, as driving conditions worsen because of slippery road surfaces and limited visibility.
In April, Storm Kathleen caused widespread travel disruption as hundreds of flood alerts were issued and thousands of homes lose power.
The Environment Agency had 213 flood alerts and 100 flood warnings in place in England on Monday evening.