Hundreds evacuated as flooding and gales batter the south coast

Hundreds of people were evacuated and fire services warned those in flooded areas to stay on higher ground yesterday as Storm Kathleen hit Easter holiday hotspots along the south coast.

- Sammy Gecsoyler

Evacuations in West Sussex went ahead in the early hours after the River Arun overflowed its banks, with warnings that flooding would increase. About 180 people were rescued from Medmerry Holiday Park in Earnley and about 15 from Ferry Road and Rope Walk in Littlehampton, the county council said. About 20 holidaymakers were evacuated from Bracklesham Caravan and Boat Club.

One person showing signs of hypothermia was taken to hospital.

Huge waves pounded the promenade at Penzance, Cornwall, while in Falmouth beach huts were washed into the sea. On Hordle beach at Milford-on-Sea, Hampshire, huts toppled and inched toward the waves. Forecasters warned that heavy rain and strong winds would continue to batter parts of southern England, western Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland over the next few days.

West Sussex fire and rescue service (WSFRS) said yesterday that its Littlehampton incident had been stood down. Jim Mackay, WSFRS group manager, warned anybody stuck or trapped by flood water to stay on high ground and contact the emergency services by calling 999.