A Flood Alert was issued for Groundwater flooding in the West of Dorset in Dorset Council on 9th March 2026. Affected watercourses included the Groundwater.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The Groundwater Level at Delcombe Wood rose 1.12m, peaking at 137.32m, while the Groundwater Level at Ridge Way climbed 1.02m.
Environment Agency advice issued
Groundwater levels in the West Dorset area have begun to slowly recede, but remain over the flood alert thresholds. Flooding of fields and roads is still possible. Groundwater levels remain responsive to further rainfall. Where groundwater is near the surface, intense rainfall will lead to surface water flooding. We are closely monitoring the situation. Residents are advised to prepare property resilience measures and ensure that pumps are working where they have been installed . This message will be updated by 11:00AM on 16th March 2026 or as the situation changes.
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delcombe Wood | Groundwater Level | +1.12m | 137.32m |
| Ridge Way | Groundwater Level | +1.02m | 77.36m |
| Badbury Rings | Groundwater Level | +0.69m | 35.61m |
| Iwerne Hill Farm | Groundwater Level | +0.60m | 109.89m |
| Kingston Russell | Groundwater Level | +0.50m | 119.76m |
| Bank Barrow | Groundwater Level | +0.46m | 52.81m |
| Doles Ash | Groundwater Level | +0.25m | 120.91m |
| Dickley Down | Groundwater Level | +0.18m | 160.75m |
| Ashmore | Groundwater Level | +0.10m | 134.31m |