The Met Office has forecast a near-certainty of heavy rain for Gloucester, Gloucestershire, starting on Thursday 26 February 2026 and continuing overnight. Forecasters expect a 90 per cent chance of rain by 4:00 PM today, rising to over 95 per cent from 6:00 PM onwards and lasting into the early hours of Friday morning.
The Environment Agency has issued serious flood warnings for the River Severn at Sandhurst and Maisemore, as high river levels and high tides are expected to cause flooding today. These warnings specifically cover properties in Base Lane, Sandhurst Lane, and the Riverside area of Maisemore, as well as Walham and Severnside Farm.
Significant travel disruption is already affecting the local area, with the A417 at Maisemore currently considered impassable for drivers between the Over Roundabout and the White Hart Inn. Local authorities have also officially closed Sandhurst Lane for safety reasons because of deep surface water on the road.
Residents in high-risk areas are being encouraged to activate any flood protection products they have and to move their vehicles to higher ground before the heaviest downpours arrive. Officials warn that the combination of high tides and heavy rain can turn roads into rivers within minutes, making them extremely dangerous for travel.
The public is advised to avoid walking, cycling, or driving through any floodwater to stay safe during the storm. Local agencies are monitoring the situation closely as the River Severn continues to rise following a particularly wet month of February.
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