The Environment Agency and the Met Office issued a joint warning on February 18, 2026, telling residents in Fleet, Hampshire, to prepare for unsettled weather that is likely to last until mid-March 2026. This warning follows an exceptionally wet start to the year, where some regions have seen nearly double the normal amount of rainfall.
The wet conditions are being driven by a strong jet stream that has moved further south than usual, bringing frequent rain and heavy winds to the area. Because the ground is already very wet, even standard spring showers could now lead to surface-water flooding or travel problems for the local community.
Specific high-risk areas in the town include properties near the Fleet Brook and Pinegrove Stream, as well as homes in Ancells Farm, Pondtail, and along Reading Road. On February 19, 2026, teams closed the Thames Barrier to help manage water levels further east as high tides and strong winds continue to impact the region.
While over 24,500 properties across the country have been protected by existing flood defences, 355 homes have already been flooded so far this year. Residents are encouraged to sign up for flood alerts and monitor local water levels to stay informed about potential risks to their homes and travel routes.
