The M23 near Crawley is closed southbound between junctions 10 and 11 due to flooding leading to long delays for motorists at junction 9 for Gatwick Airport. In Petersfield, the A3 northbound has lane closures due to flooding. Near Portsmouth, the A27 is closed eastbound between the junction with the A259 at Havant and the A259 at Chichester. Last night about 20 cars were stranded in the same section after being caught in flood waters. The road was closed in both directions for some time while emergency services worked to remove those trapped. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service says people should avoid any unnecessary travel over the next few hours due to several incidents of flooding in the county. West Sussex is one of the hardest hit areas, with incidents reported in several areas. Flash flooding has also been reported in parts of Hampshire and Dorset. In a statement on Wednesday night, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “The A27 is closed in both directions from Fishbourne, Chichester to Havant. “Around 20 cars are stuck in the flood waters. Police at the scene and the road closed in both directions. “We are monitoring with specialist equipment to help get people to safety. Avoid the area and only travel if necessary.” Similar incidents have been reported in Haywards Heath, where flooding temporarily closed roads and caused water to go through drains.
