Thames at high levels throughout

In addition to the bulletin issued on the 21st reporting flood alerts, there are now a number of flood warnings (one level higher than alert) in place. These are:

Dorchester

Property flooding is expected. River levels remain high on the lower river Thame. Therefore, flooding of a small number of properties closest to the river is possible. River levels are stable but are expected to remain high for several days and sensitive to further rainfall. Today is forecast to be mainly dry before more rain moves in overnight tonight into Tuesday (24/12/2019). 

Purley

Property flooding is expected. River levels are rising on the River Thames as a result of recent heavy rainfall. Therefore, flooding of property is possible today. We expect flooding to affect properties along River Gardens. Peak levels will be similar to the flooding in November 2000. Today is forecast to be mainly dry before more rain moves in overnight tonight into Tuesday (24/12/2019). We expect river levels to continue rising very slowly over the next couple of days as water moves through the river system. 

Shiplake and Wargrave

Property flooding is possible. River levels are high on the River Thames as a result of sustained heavy rainfall. Therefore flooding of low lying properties close to the river is still possible, especially in the Bolney Road and Basmore Lane areas. We expect river levels to stabilise but remain high over the next few days. We are closely monitoring the situation. Please remain safe and aware of your local surroundings, avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and move family, pets and cars to safety. 

Hampton Court to Richmond

Property flooding is possible. River levels are high on the River Thames due to heavy rainfall over the previous week. High tides are rising levels further still, the next high tide is forecast at Thames Ditton Island at approximately 12:45 this afternoon (23/12/19) and the following high tide is expected at approximately 01:15 tomorrow morning (24/12/19). We are expecting the tides to raise water levels higher than experienced yesterday and therefore we expect property flooding to occur.

Although the weather has eased off, water levels are expected to rise over the next day or two.