The Environment Agency and the Met Office have issued a joint warning for southern England, as unsettled weather is expected to last until at least mid-March 2026. This period of wind and rain is expected to bring repeated storms that could cause flooding and travel delays across the region, including in Royal Tunbridge Wells and the wider South East.
The South West of England has already seen 184 per cent of its usual rainfall since the start of the year because of an unusually strong jet stream. Because the ground is already very wet across much of the south, experts say that even moderate rain could lead to immediate runoff and rising river levels in the coming weeks.
The Middle River Medway, which covers the area from Penshurst to Yalding, remains under close observation by officials following recent alerts. To help manage high tides and river flows, teams from the Environment Agency will close the Thames Barrier on February 19, 2026.
Local rail services between Tunbridge Wells and Hastings are also at high risk of disruption. Heavy rain often causes landslips in the Robertsbridge area, which can block the tracks and stop trains from running between Battle and Tunbridge Wells.
Residents are being encouraged to take simple steps to protect their homes, such as checking property drains and securing garden furniture against strong winds. Allowing extra time for journeys is also advised as the wet weather continues through the start of March.
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