A danger to life warning has been issued across parts of Dorset as Storm Chandra pushes river levels to critical points and overwhelms already saturated ground across the county.
The most serious warning is in place at Iford Bridge Home Park near Christchurch, where the River Stour is expected to flood rapidly. The Environment Agency has warned that floodwater here is likely to be deep, fast-flowing and extremely dangerous, with residents told to evacuate immediately. Around 80 homes are at risk, and power supplies to the site may be cut as water levels continue to rise.
“River levels are rising and require residents to evacuate as quickly as possible,” the Environment Agency said. “Move family, pets and cars to safety and turn off gas, electricity and water if it is safe to do so.”
Rivers under strain across Dorset
The River Stour, which flows from Stourhead through Gillingham, Blandford Forum and into Christchurch Harbour, is under particular pressure after days of sustained rainfall. Tributaries feeding into the Stour are also running high, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying communities along its course.
Further west, the River Frome is being closely monitored as levels rise through Dorchester and surrounding villages. While not yet at the same severity as the Stour, officials warn that additional rainfall could quickly change the situation, particularly where the river meets already waterlogged floodplains.
The River Piddle and River Wey are also elevated, with localised flooding affecting fields, minor roads and footpaths. Residents near riverbanks have been urged to remain vigilant and prepared for rapid changes.
Lakes and waterlogged ground worsening the risk
Dorset’s lakes, reservoirs and water meadows are already close to capacity following weeks of rain. Areas around Poole Harbour, where multiple rivers and streams discharge, face heightened flood risk as high river flows coincide with tides, slowing drainage and causing water to back up inland.
The Environment Agency has warned that surface water flooding is also likely, particularly in urban areas where drains are overwhelmed. This raises the risk of flash flooding even away from major rivers, especially overnight and during heavier bursts of rain.
Travel disruption and emergency response
Several roads across Dorset have been closed due to flooding, particularly rural routes near rivers and lakes. Drivers are being urged not to attempt to cross flooded roads, with authorities stressing that even shallow water can hide strong currents or damaged road surfaces.
Emergency services remain on standby, and residents are being advised to keep mobile phones charged, monitor local flood alerts, and follow evacuation instructions without delay where issued.
More rain to come
The Met Office has a yellow weather warning for rain in place for the south west of England, including Dorset, from midday Thursday until late evening. Forecasters warn that further heavy rain could exacerbate river flooding and prolong disruption.
“There is a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life,” the Met Office said.
With Dorset’s rivers already swollen and lakes at or near capacity, officials warn that the situation remains fluid and could worsen quickly. Residents living near rivers, streams and low-lying land are being urged to stay alert, check local flood warnings regularly, and take action early if advised to do so.
