Flood warning for Lower Stour from Sturminster Marshall to Christchurch
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High river levels are expected to cause flooding overnight.
Flooding is expected on 22 January 2026 .
Areas most at risk include farms at Sturminster Marshall, Cowgrove, Shops in Wimborne, Mill Street in Corfe Mullen, Bridge House Hotel in Ferndown, Brecon Close, Ringwood Road, Throop Road in Bournemouth, Barrack Road and Willow Way in Christchurch. Levels at the Wimborne gauge are rising steadily following days of rainfall. the levvel is forecast to peak at Wimborne overnight but further rain could push the level higher. We are not forecasting any impacts at Iford Park homes at this point with current models suggesting levels peaking below 2.2m at the site.
We are closely monitoring the situation .
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This message will be updated by 3:30PM on 23 January 2026 or as the situation changes.
Flood warning area: Farms at Sturminster Marshall, Cowgrove, Shops in Wimborne, Mill Street in Corfe Mullen, Bridge House Hotel in Ferndown, Brecon Close, Ringwood Road, Throop Road in Bournemouth, Barrack Road and Willow Way in Christchurch.
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Latest levels
The River Stour level at Wimborne was 1.47 metres. Property flooding is possible when it goes above 1.38 metres. Monitor the River Stour level at Wimborne.
The River Stour level at Throop was 1.24 metres. Property flooding is possible when it goes above 1.30 metres. Monitor the River Stour level at Throop.
These levels will update automatically
Find a river, sea, groundwater or rainfall level in this area