The Environment Agency issued a Flood Alert for the Pent Stream catchment in Folkestone, Kent, early on 6 February 2026 as river levels rose. The alert warns that low-lying land, footpaths and roads are at risk after a sustained period of heavy rain that has left ground conditions saturated.
The Pent Stream is a rapid‑response catchment and is monitored by gauging stations (including the Black Bull Road site). Because the stream can rise quickly after intense rain, areas at risk include Morehall, Cheriton and central Folkestone. Residents are being asked to watch for rising water around Pavilion Road, Bradstone Avenue and the Morehall recreation ground and to avoid the water’s edge.
Local flood authorities and the Environment Agency say the alert follows an unusually wet start to the year, with catchments across the region remaining sensitive to further rainfall. Local officials are also using new interactive ‘talking signs’ installed along the Pent Stream to give neighbours localized information on water levels.
While property flooding was not reported as imminent at the time of the alert, the Environment Agency is advising people to avoid floodwater and to activate personal flood plans where appropriate. Folkestone & Hythe District Council and emergency services are monitoring the situation. For the latest status and live gauge readings, residents should check the Environment Agency’s ‘Check for flooding’ service and sign up for EA flood warnings.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
