A FLOOD alert has been issued by the Environment Agency over potential groundwater flooding.

Flooding is possible for Patcham, north of Brighton, including Old London Road, parts of Church Hill and Mill Road.

Water levels are expected to rise over the next couple of days before stabilising, though some rain is also forecast for tonight, tomorrow and Thursday.

Water levels are also being closely monitored in Portslade.

Local councillor Lee Wares said: "At present, ground water coming to the surface is not forecast but cellars and basements may be at risk."

He said the council had held meetings with the fire service, police, Southern Water, Sussex Resilience Forum and UK Power Networks to ensure they could respond quickly if needed.

The Environment Agency has told residents to be prepared and check basements and cellars.

A spokesman said: "Groundwater may affect some basements in Patcham and some new springs may appear in the locality. "The weather forecast for the next few days is for predominantly colder and drier weather.

"It is not currently thought groundwater levels will rise significantly further. We will keep an eye on the weather forecast and amend our predictions if necessary."

Call Floodline on 0345 988 1188 for up-to-date information.