A FLOOD alert remains in place for parts of Basingstoke, after two named storms in the last two weeks.

Storm Ciara and then Storm Dennis battered the country earlier this month, with damage being done all across North Hampshire.

Widespread flooding has been seen across parts of Wales and central England, with 84 flood warnings - meaning that flooding is expected - still in force.

In Basingstoke, the lower flood alert is in force, meaning that flooding is possible, and urges residents to be prepared.

The Churchill Way West corridor is affected between the town centre and Buckskin, with Sherborne St John also at risk.

Advise from the flood information service says that groundwater levels have risen thanks to recent rainfall.

The services says: "Groundwater levels have responded to the recent rainfall across the area and have risen at our observation borehole Tile Barn Farm, in the Basingstoke alert area.

"Groundwater levels are above normal for this time of year and have now reached a level where communities may be affected within the next few weeks by flooding from groundwater.

"The Buckskin area is currently unaffected by high groundwater levels.

"We expect levels to rise over the next few weeks in response to rainfall forecast across the area.

"Low-lying land and roads will therefore continue to be at risk of flooding.

"Due to the nature of groundwater behaviour, this situation could continue for several weeks or longer."

The alert is due to be updated tomorrow (Monday).

A further alert is present in Deane and Ashe, where groundwater levels "continue to slowly rise" and cellar flooding is expected.

The service says: "The River Test is flowing through Deane and Ashe. In the next few days, we expect cellar flooding in Deane.

"Rising groundwater will also affect the ability of septic tanks to operate properly. Over the next 5 days, small amounts of rain are expected each day. Groundwater will rise for at least the next 10 days.

"Towards the end of February, levels may be high enough that access roads from the B3400 into Deane may have to be closed.

"We continue to monitor the forecast. If you have pumps to reduce water levels, please ensure they can operate."

A third flood alert is in force along the River Whitewater and River Hart, running through Hook, Hartley Wintney and North Warnborough.

However, houses are "not expected" to be flooded.

"River levels remain high but are falling on the River Whitewater and River Hart as a result of recent heavy rainfall from Storm Dennis.

"Flooding of roads and low lying areas is expected to continue today. Further rainfall is forecast today (23/02/20) with heavier rainfall tomorrow (24/02/20).

"Our response staff have been in the area clearing trash screens and checking defences.

"Please remain safe and aware of your local surroundings and refer to the 'River and Sea levels in England' webpage for current river levels."