UK weather: Storm Kathleen causes flooding with emergency service launching rescue operations

The River Arun has burst its banks in West Sussex with local emergency services preparing for rescue operations in the seaside town of Littlehampton. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service warned people in Littlehampton of severe floodwaters in the wake of Storm Kathleen. “Our crews are supporting rescue operations in Littlehampton near Ferry Road and Rope Walk where the River Arun has burst its banks, leading to severe flooding,” the emergency service said on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Residents should remain in their properties if it is safe to do so and get as high as possible within their homes.” They said anyone requiring lifesaving intervention should dial 999 to contact the fire and rescue service or the coastguard. “Please avoid the area and remain in your homes where possible to allow our crews to work safely,” the emergency service said. They were also dealing with a “severe flooding incident” at Medmerry holiday park between Bracklesham and Selsey. They urged anyone in the vicinity of the holiday park to get to high ground if they are able to leave their homes. South East Coast Ambulance confirmed a “number of resources” were sent to help evacuate and rescue a number of people from the site. “We’ve assessed and triaged a number of people at a nearby facility. One person showing signs of hypothermia has been taken to hospital,” they said on X. The emergency update comes as heavy rain and strong winds continue to batter parts of southern England, western Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland over the next few days, forecasters have said. In Hampshire, flooding is affecting the railway at Lymington Pier. Trains may be cancelled, delayed, or revised because of this problem, said South Western Railway, adding that replacement buses had been requested between Lymington Pier and Brockenhurst. Subscribe to the Evening Standard: for latest breaking news from the UK, US and around the world, plus podcasts and features. Evening Standard on socials: Check out our full video catalog: Videos, daily editorial and more: Like us on Facebook: Follow us on Twitter: and Instagram: