Millions of Britons are facing a heightened risk of flooding as persistent heavy rain continues to batter many parts of the country, prompting the issuance of dozens of official flood warnings. The Met Office has advised residents in vulnerable areas to prepare emergency kits and develop flood plans to safeguard against potential disruptions.
Widespread Weather Warnings and Flood Risks
The Environment Agency has issued 27 flood warnings across the United Kingdom, with significant concerns concentrated in the South West, parts of the South East, and Yorkshire. Less severe flood alerts have been disseminated across much of England, indicating widespread wet conditions. A slow-moving area of low pressure to the southwest is driving this unsettled weather pattern, bringing prolonged periods of rain and strong winds.
Impact on Travel and Infrastructure
Authorities have warned that the adverse conditions could lead to power outages and substantial delays across road, rail, air, and ferry networks. Coastal regions are particularly at risk, with forecasts predicting large waves and gusty winds that may exacerbate flooding in low-lying areas. The Met Office emphasises that these warnings highlight the danger of fast-flowing or deep floodwater, which could potentially isolate some communities.
Met Office Guidance and Emergency Preparedness
In response to the escalating situation, the Met Office is urging families to consider assembling an emergency flood kit. This kit should include essential items such as torches, spare batteries, a mobile phone power pack, and other necessities to sustain households during potential isolation. Developing a comprehensive flood plan is also recommended to ensure swift and safe action if waters rise.
Statement from Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong
"An area of low pressure, named Storm Ingrid by the Portuguese national weather service, will bring spells of heavy rain and strong winds across much of southwest England on Friday before easing on Saturday morning," said Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong. "The system is slow-moving but will bring more than 20mm of rain for some which is falling on saturated ground, increasing the chances of impacts. In addition to rain, large waves and gusty winds are likely, especially along southern coasts, with 60mph peaks possible, with 45-50mph inland."
Specific Areas Under Flood Warnings
The following locations are currently under active flood warnings, as updated by the Environment Agency. Residents in these areas should remain vigilant and follow official advice:
- Christchurch Harbour Side (Updated 9:01am on 23 January 2026)
- Curry Moor and Hay Moor (Updated 8:11am on 23 January 2026)
- Dorset coast at Chiswell (Updated 3:07pm on 22 January 2026)
- Fittleworth on the Western River Rother (Updated 8:40am on 23 January 2026)
- Groundwater flooding for the Iwerne (Updated 2:44pm on 19 January 2026)
- Groundwater flooding for the South Winterbourne Valley (Updated 2:33pm on 19 January 2026)
- Lower Frome from East Stoke to Wareham (Updated 3:03pm on 22 January 2026)
- Lower Stour at Redhill and Wheatplot Home Sites (Updated 6:23pm on 22 January 2026)
- Lower Stour from Sturminster Marshall to Christchurch (Updated 6:23pm on 22 January 2026)
- Lyme Regis Harbour (Updated 9:57am on 23 January 2026)
- Middle Hampshire Avon from Salisbury to Ringwood (Updated 4:22pm on 22 January 2026)
- Middle Stour from Hammoon to Sturminster Marshall (Updated 3:01pm on 22 January 2026)
- Plymouth Sound, Wembury Bay and tidal estuaries (Updated 3:16pm on 22 January 2026)
- Poole Harbour at West Quay and Lower Hamworthy Quay (Updated 7:50am on 23 January 2026)
- Portland Harbour at Ferry Bridge (Updated 3:34pm on 22 January 2026)
- Pulborough on the River Arun (Updated 9:36am on 23 January 2026)
- River Nidd at Hunsingore (Updated 8:43am on 23 January 2026)
- River Ouse at Naburn Lock (Updated 8:47am on 23 January 2026)
- River Ouse at York - riverside properties (Updated 8:52am on 23 January 2026)
- River Ouse at York - St George's Field and Queen's Staith (Updated 8:54am on 23 January 2026)
- River Ure at Boroughbridge Camping and Caravanning Site (Updated 10:01am on 23 January 2026)
- South Cornwall coast from Gribbin Head to Rame Head (Updated 3:19pm on 22 January 2026)
- South Cornwall coast from Lizard Point to Gribbin Head excluding the Tidal Fal Estuary (Updated 3:18pm on 22 January 2026)
- South Devon coast low-lying areas of the Dart estuary (Updated 3:48pm on 22 January 2026)
- Swinney Beck at Masham (Updated 6:41pm on 22 January 2026)
- Tidal Fal Estuary (Updated 3:13pm on 22 January 2026)
- West Bay East Beach (Updated 9:51am on 23 January 2026)
This extensive list underscores the broad geographic scope of the current flood threat. Yellow weather warnings for rain and wind remain in effect for areas including Cornwall, Devon, other parts of the South West, southern Wales, and parts of northern Scotland, with these alerts set to persist until at least 9am tomorrow. The public is advised to stay informed through official channels and take all necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of severe weather.
