A Flood Alert was issued for River Cole, Dorcan Brook and South Marston Brook in Oxfordshire, Swindon on 12th March 2026. Affected watercourses included the River Cole.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The South Marston Brook at Highworth Bridge rose 0.48m, peaking at 0.61m, while the River Cole at Lower Stratton climbed 0.48m.
Environment Agency advice issued
Rising river levels overnight may lead to flooding. Flooding is possible from the evening of 12 March 2026 . Flooding of low lying land and roads is possible, especially in the Covingham and Nythe areas of Swindon. Heavy rainfall is forecast this evening and overnight. We expect river levels to rise in response to the overnight rainfall. We are monitoring rainfall and river levels . Take care and avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water . Go to River Levels Online for updates on current river levels. This message will be updated by 12:00PM on 13 March 2026 or as the situation
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highworth Bridge | South Marston Brook | +0.48m | 0.61m |
| Lower Stratton | River Cole | +0.48m | 2.45m |
| Water Eaton | River Ray | +0.43m | 1.85m |
| Kestrel Drive | Dorcan Brook | +0.36m | 1.25m |
| Hannington Bridge | River Thames | +0.34m | 3.36m |
| Rodbourne | River Ray | +0.30m | 0.43m |
| Inglesham | River Cole | +0.22m | 0.29m |
| St Johns Lock | River Thames | +0.22m | 1.84m |
| Lechlade | River Leach | +0.05m | 0.20m |