Severe flooding in West Sussex, triggered by Storm Kathleen, has caused extensive disruptions and evacuations, particularly affecting areas such as Littlehampton and the Medmerry Holiday Park. The sudden flooding came as a result of the River Arun bursting its banks, prompting emergency services to carry out rescue operations and advise residents to seek higher ground and stay indoors if possible. Over 200 people have been evacuated, with the West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and South East Coast Ambulance Service at the forefront of these efforts. One individual has been hospitalized due to hypothermia, highlighting the immediate dangers posed by the floodwaters.

The impacts of Storm Kathleen have been felt across the UK, with flooding and strong winds affecting southern England, western Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings in anticipation of further adverse weather conditions, including strong gusts of up to 65mph, which could lead to power cuts and damage to buildings. Rail travel has also been disrupted in various locations due to the flooding, with services at Lymington Pier among those affected.

Authorities have expressed concerns over rising water levels, with forecasts indicating that the worst may yet to come. The Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales have issued a number of flood alerts and warnings, underscoring the risk of continued flooding due to the already saturated ground from recent rainfall. Emergency services remain vigilant, emphasizing the need for residents to stay safe and reach out to them if necessary.

The situation in West Sussex remains critical, with both the community and emergency services working together to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing flooding. As the region braces for potentially more severe weather, efforts to protect and support affected residents continue, with a rest centre set up to assist those evacuated from their homes.