Flood alerts issued for Christchurch and Poole harbours

“Be prepared” is the message from the Environment Agency who forecast flooding in Christchurch and Poole with heavy rain set to hit Dorset again.

The flood alert for Christchurch Harbour has been issued due to the high tide forecast. Areas most at risk include the harbour and tidal stretches of the Lower Stour and Avon.

Flooding of low-lying land and roads is expected until at least 12pm on Monday.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “We are expecting higher than normal tides up to and including the morning tide of the 9th of November. We will continue to monitor levels closely.”

The situation is similar in Poole, with areas most at risk including the harbour and tidal stretches of the Lower Frome and River Piddle.

Again, flooding of low-lying land and roads is expected throughout Monday morning as well as the morning tide of Tuesday, November 8.

In the New Forest, meanwhile, Monday morning's tide is higher than normal due to unsettled weather with strong south westerly winds.

Heavy winds at Christchurch Harbour

At Beaulieu estuary, the total forecast tide is 4.27metres. For one hour either side of high water, the tide will flood the garden of the mill house on the downstream side of the Mill Pond. It will also flow across Palace Lane and the B3056 (Hatchet Lane), making it temporarily more difficult for traffic to access the village.

Flood water in Palace Lane could be up to 0.2m deep. At 10.06pm on Monday (07/11)‚ it is predicted the tide and flood impacts will be similar to that seen in the morning.

The Environment Agency said: “For safety, please take care if walking through Beaulieu. The incoming tide will flood roads quickly. At Hatchet Lane, driving through flood water increases flood risk to property. Please avoid using this road.”

A Yellow Weather warning has also been issued for parts of the UK, including all of Dorset and parts of the New Forest – including Ringwood and Fordingbridge.

The Met Office weather forecast for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole on Monday afternoon is: “A mostly cloudy day with outbreaks of rain at times, especially in the west. Becoming increasingly windy with coastal gales developing later in the day. Feeling mild again.”

Monday evening will see: “A band of heavy rain and very strong, gusty winds will move east overnight, with clear spells and blustery showers following. A mild night for all.”

As for Tuesday, November 8, the Met Office said: “A rather windy day with scattered blustery, at times heavy, showers and a risk of thunder. There will be some bright or sunny spells too.”