Yellow Weather Warning For Rain Issued For Isle Of Wight With Flood Alert In Force

Another yellow weather warning for heavy rain has been issued for the Isle of Wight, with disruption and possible flooding expected from Wednesday morning.

The warning, issued by the Met Office, will be in force from 6am on Wednesday (18 February) until 8am on Thursday (19 February).

Forecasters say spells of heavy rain could bring between 10mm and 20mm widely, with some coastal areas potentially seeing up to 30mm.

Strong easterly to northeasterly winds are also expected, which may worsen impacts in exposed locations.

Residents are being warned to expect:

• Spray and flooding on roads, leading to longer journey times

• Possible delays to bus and train services

• Flooding of a small number of homes and businesses

• Possible disruption to power supplies and other services

Flood Alert In Force For Eastern Yar

Separately, the Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for the Eastern Yar and its tributaries from Whitwell to Bembridge.

High river levels combined with forecast rainfall of around 25mm could lead to flooding on Wednesday.

Areas already affected or at risk include:

• Golf Links Road

• Moreton Common Road

• Low-lying land near the river

• Cycle paths and footpaths along the Eastern Yar

At Langbridge and Alverstone, the river is expected to run close to bank-full, with possible garden flooding at Nicholas Close.

Ditches around Fort Holiday Park may also struggle to drain while water levels remain high.

Environment Agency teams are checking rivers for blockages and operating the sluices at Bembridge to help manage water levels.

River levels are expected to begin falling from Thursday onwards, with the flood risk reducing in areas including Alverstone and Sandown.

Residents Urged To Prepare

People living in flood-prone areas are being advised to consider activating flood protection measures and to remain alert to changing conditions.

Drivers are urged to allow extra time for journeys and avoid flooded roads, while residents should ensure they are prepared in case of power disruption.

The Environment Agency says it will continue monitoring the situation and will update the alert as conditions change.

When will the rain stop?

The Island has experienced little relief from the rainfall in 2026, and meteorologist, Steven Keates, has suggested that from February 25 to March 11 there’s "a risk of some heavy rain, but also drier, more settled weather".

So fingers crossed for the latter, and that there are brighter days on the horizon.