Flood warning for East Sussex

Flood warnings have been issued for East Sussex by the Environment Agency and Met Office.

A week of sustained rainfall is expected to culminate in persistent and heavy rain on Sunday.

Environment Agency officers have been busy working throughout the week to monitor river levels, check flood defences and ensure drains and culverts are free from debris to reduce potential flood risk where possible across the region.

A number of Flood Watches have already been issued in parts of the region and these may increase as rivers respond to rainfall this weekend.

Across the South East around 50 to 75mm of rain has already fallen so far this week so the ground is already "saturated" and river levels have risen.

Those living in areas at risk of flooding have been told to prepare.

"Now is an ideal time for anyone living in an area vulnerable to flooding to think about the steps they can take to protect their properties," said Andrew Gilham, flood and coastal risk manager.

"We are receiving regular detailed forecasts from the Met Office, continuously monitoring river levels and have had officers out throughout the week checking river levels and clearing blockages to prepare for the rainfall.

"Thankfully we've not yet had any reports of properties flooded but with flood watches and warnings being issued we could see some instances of flooding."

For advice on how to protect yourself and your property telephone Floodline on 0845 988 1188, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Further advice and the latest information on flood warnings is also available at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.