B&M in Basingstoke was forced to close today after heavy rain has caused flooding in the store.

The former Mother Care site on Wallop Drive in Kempshott had water “pouring in” after heavy rain fell in the town.

A spokesperson for B&M has confirmed the store is now reopen.

One customer posted online: “Water was pouring in and the suspended roof was falling in.”
Another customer told the Gazette: “I have a day off but just been passed B&M the new store in Hatch Warren and their roof is leaking. Someone said [the roof had] fallen in but I didn’t see that.  They have had to close the store as it’s flooded.”

The flood comes after Basingstoke has experienced scorching temperatures in the last few days.

The latest weather forecast from the Met Office shows heavy rain is expected until 9pm tonight.

Elsewhere in Basingstoke drivers are being warned to take care on Wade Road after the road has flooded.

Warning other motorists, a woman wrote to Facebook: "It's deep, try at your own risk. Already seen two flooded engines. Use Stroudley Road instead."

Hampshire's roads policing unit say they have already been deployed to several road traffic collisions today. 

A spokesman is urging motorists to drive carefully, writing: "Please drive carefully and appropriately for the weather conditions. Lots of standing water around."