Heavy Rain Warning For Sussex As Flooding Risk Increases On Thursday

People across Sussex are being warned to prepare for heavy rain and possible surface water flooding on Thursday, with saturated ground increasing the risk of localised impacts.

Forecasters say a deepening area of low pressure will move northeast across England and Wales, bringing persistent and sometimes heavy rain throughout the day.

While the exact track of the system remains uncertain, rainfall is expected to clear northwards later on Thursday evening and overnight.

Rainfall totals of 20 to 40 millimetres are expected fairly widely, with some areas seeing much of that fall in just a few hours.

With the ground already waterlogged, this could lead to surface water flooding in parts of Sussex.

What to expect

• Flooding of a small number of homes and businesses is possible

• Bus and train services may be affected, with longer journey times

• Spray and flooding on roads could cause delays for drivers

Motorists are being advised to take extra care, as standing water on roads may make driving conditions hazardous.

What you can do

Residents are encouraged to:

• Check whether their property is at risk of flooding and consider preparing a simple flood plan and emergency kit

• Check road conditions, and bus or train timetables before travelling, allowing extra time where possible

• Be prepared for potential power cuts by having torches, spare batteries and a charged mobile phone power pack to hand

• Stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings, as conditions could change quickly

The warning was issued at 10.29am on Tuesday 13 January, with people across Sussex urged to stay alert as the wet weather moves in.