Residents in the vicinity of the Cuckmere and Bull Rivers are being warned of impending floods. The forecast predicts a significant rise in water levels starting Monday evening, with an estimated 40 to 60mm of rainfall between 14:00 on January 1st, 2024, and 18:00 on January 2nd.

By 23:00 on January 1st, the rising waters are expected to impact fields, rural roads, gardens, and properties along Mill Lane and Grove Hill near Grovebridge Farm in Hellingly. The situation is likely to escalate by 03:00 on January 2nd, with potential flooding of properties on Station Road, Church Lane, and Church Road in Hellingly. The threat extends to North Street, Willows Car Park, and properties on River Lane, including The Old Clergy House and Deans Place Hotel in Alfriston, from 06:00 on the same day. Litlington Road may also face access issues due to floodwater.

Further concerns arise with an additional forecast of 20-30mm of rain on the afternoon of January 4th. River levels are not expected to recede until Wednesday and will remain higher than normal throughout the week, potentially reaching heights similar to the early December 2023 floods.

Authorities are urging locals to plan alternative routes, avoiding flood-prone areas such as Mill Lane and Church Road in Hellingly, and North Street in Alfriston. Active monitoring of river levels and weather forecasts is ongoing, and an update is expected by 12:00 on January 2nd, 2024. Residents are advised to stay alert and prioritise safety in these challenging conditions.