Published on Friday 30 January 2026
With the effects of Storm Chandra still being felt in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, the council is advising residents to remain cautious as they begin their weekend.
Although river levels have fallen, further rain is forecast for the next few days.
A yellow weather warning for rain from the Met Office is expected to apply to the area from midday on Monday. This extra rainfall could have the potential to lead to some flooding and disruption at the start of next week.
Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, said:
“Ground across the across BCP and upstream in Dorset, West Hants and Wiltshire remains very wet, and further rain forecast for the next few days may exacerbate the current flooding issues that the council teams are still dealing with.
“It is important people take care when out and about this weekend. Those travelling by car, motorbike or bicycle should avoid flooded areas and not go directly through flood water or mud.
“Local bus and train services may be affected; residents should check directly with the service provider for status updates, and it’s worth parents allowing additional time for journeys to school on Monday, as travel disruption is possible.
“People out for a walk this weekend should keep well clear of cliff edges and bases and exercise caution when walking near large bodies of water such as rivers and lakes; fast flowing or deep floodwater can cause a danger to life.
“Anyone concerned about their property should spend some time looking at any measures they might need to take. Overflowing rivers and runoff from rainfall or blocked drains could cause homes and roads to flood. Guidance is available from the National Flood Forum website.
“Our teams remain on standby and well prepared to respond to any issues, helping to keep you safe.”
BCP Council’s readiness this weekend follows work since Monday to assist local communities affected by the flooding caused by Storm Chandra.
The storm brought intense rainfall and swift rises in river and groundwater levels on top of already saturated land. In several areas, river levels met or exceeded their highest records.
On Wednesday, our highways teams worked through the night responding to 153 reports of flooding on the road network across our area.
At Iford Bridge Home Park, the council’s work included transporting people away from their flooded homes, operating a nearby rest and reception centre, and providing overnight security due to the number of empty properties.
The residents of Beaulieu Garden Park Home Site, Iford Bridge Home Park and Redhill and Wheatplot Homes Sites have been advised they can now return to their homes. Power has been reinstated at Iford Bridge Home Park and the flood warning for this area is no longer in force.
Residents should use the links below to report any weather-related incidents:
- BCP Council's Report It function
- Flooding in homes and businesses
- Power cuts – find your local electricity network
- As the rainwater dissipates, its continued run off could also create the risk of trees falling. Any fallen trees can be reported online via BCP Council's Report It function
If there is an emergency or danger to life, call 999.
Keep up to date with the latest advice and weather warnings from the Met Office
Guidance on protecting property and homes is available from the National Flood Forum website https://nationalfloodforum.org.uk/about-flooding/reducing-your-risk/protecting-your-property/
And the SW Flood and Coastal website: Prepare for flooding - South West Flood and Coastal