A Flood Alert was issued for Groundwater flooding in the West of Dorset in Dorset Council on 16th March 2026. Affected watercourses included the Groundwater.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The Groundwater Level at Ridge Way rose 1.09m, peaking at 75.01m, while the Groundwater Level at Iwerne Hill Farm climbed 0.81m.
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 23rd March 2026 or as the situation changes.
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ridge Way | Groundwater Level | +1.09m | 75.01m |
| Iwerne Hill Farm | Groundwater Level | +0.81m | 108.64m |
| Dickley Down | Groundwater Level | +0.65m | 160.70m |
| Kingston Russell | Groundwater Level | +0.61m | 118.50m |
| Badbury Rings | Groundwater Level | +0.54m | 34.10m |
| Delcombe Wood | Groundwater Level | +0.46m | 134.86m |
| Doles Ash | Groundwater Level | +0.31m | 120.34m |
| Bank Barrow | Groundwater Level | +0.30m | 51.87m |
| Ashton Farm | Groundwater Level | +0.09m | 70.96m |
| Ashmore | Groundwater Level | +0.07m | 134.07m |