Flood Chaos on the A27: 20 Cars Stuck as Road Shuts Both Ways
Floodwaters have trapped around 20 cars on the A27 between Havant and Fishbourne near Chichester. Police and West Sussex Fire and Rescue are at the scene, dealing with the chaos and closing the road in both directions.
Specialist Rescue Teams Deployed Amid Heavy Flooding
West Sussex Fire and Rescue said: “A27 CLOSED both ways from Fishbourne, Chichester to Havant. Around 20 cars stuck in flood water. Police on the scene and the road closed in both directions.” They added they are using specialist equipment to get people to safety. Authorities urge drivers to avoid the area and only travel if absolutely necessary.
Major Disruption as National Highways Issues Warning
National Highways confirmed the flood closure affects the A27 between the A259 junctions near Emsworth and Chichester due to extensive flooding after heavy rain. They warned: “Further details to follow.”
Official Diversion Routes Announced
Drivers heading eastbound should follow the hollow diamond diversion symbol:
- Exit A27 at Emsworth junction, take the 3rd exit onto the A259 eastbound at the roundabout.
- Follow A259 through Emsworth, Nutbourne, and Fishbourne to the Fishbourne roundabout.
- Take the 4th exit to rejoin A27 eastbound.
Westbound drivers are advised to follow the hollow triangle symbol:
- Leave A27 at Fishbourne roundabout, take 1st exit onto A259 westbound.
- Follow A259 through Fishbourne, Nutbourne, and Emsworth back to A27 Emsworth junction.
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A27 westbound.
There’s no estimated time for reopening at present. Similar flash flooding has also hit Haywards Heath, causing road closures and water surging through drains.
A yellow weather warning remains in place overnight, raising fears of more flooding in the early hours. Stay tuned for updates and avoid the affected routes.
