The Environment Agency issued a flood warning on 2 February 2026 for the Stour Brook — the stretch from Meldham Bridge in Haverhill to Linnetts Lane in Sturmer — saying the ground in the Stour Valley is saturated and unable to absorb further rainfall, so even moderate showers can produce rapid surface runoff.
Met Office provisional statistics for January 2026 show England recorded about 150% of its long‑term average January rainfall, leaving soils across the region unusually wet and increasing the risk that new rain will run off into streets, gardens and drains rather than soaking away.
West Suffolk Council and highway authorities are the local bodies responsible for emergency planning and highway drainage (including gully and drain clearance). The Environment Agency and local reports identify the A1307 and A143 as among the routes most likely to experience ponding and surface‑water ‘flash’ flooding while the ground remains saturated; drivers have been advised to take extra care on those corridors.
Historical records show Haverhill has been vulnerable to flash flooding during very wet winters, including notable incidents in 2012 and 2020. Local outlets such as Suffolk News have reported on flood warnings and incidents in the area in past years. Residents in low‑lying parts of town and near the River Stour are being encouraged to have personal flood plans ready, because when fields and catchments are saturated water levels and local flooding can increase quickly.
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