Flood warning for the Isle of Wight as landslide closes road in Rookley

ISLAND ROADS
Highway authorities closed a road in Rookley as 30mm of rain fell in 12 hours on the island. Credit: Island Roads

Residents on the Isle of Wight are being warned of potential flooding, following a landslip overnight.

A large pile of debris blocked Niton Road in Rookley, closing the carriageway between Harts Lane and the Chequers Inn.

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning for Saturday, 28 April, covering the villages of Whitwell, Wroxall, Langbridge and Alverstone.

The communities are all situated on the East of the island along a section of the River Yar known as the Eastern Yar.

A flood warning means flooding is expected, with local people advised to ‘act now’.

This photo of the road blockage was shared on social media on Saturday morning by highway officials. Credit: Island Roads

The agency recommends moving vehicles to higher ground if it’s safe to do so, moving family and pets to safety, and moving important items upstairs or to a safe place in your property.

It is also recommended that residents turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it’s safe to do so.

Two lower level flood alerts are also in place on the island covering Whitwell to Bembridge, as well as the River Medina from Blackwater to Newport.

In Wroxall, 30mm (1 inch) of rain fell during a 12 hour period, which the Environment Agency described as “a large volume in a short period of time”.

This is a developing story. More follows.

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know…