A Flood Warning was issued for Groundwater flooding for the South Winterbourne Valley in Dorset Council on 20th March 2026. Affected watercourses included the Groundwater.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The Groundwater Level at Ridge Way rose 0.95m, peaking at 73.54m, while the Groundwater Level at Kingston Russell climbed 0.61m.
Environment Agency advice issued
High groundwater levels are causing flooding. Groundwater levels in West Dorset remain high. Areas that could be affected include: Winterbourne Abbas, Winterbourne Steepleton, Martinstown, Winterbourne Monkton, Winterbourne Herringston and Winterbourne Came. The groundwater level at the Kingston Russell borehole has fallen to 117.39m. Levels are falling slowly but still remain high. There is no rainfall forecast in the next few days. Residents may experience inundation of septic tanks and sewer systems. Properties may experience flooding in cellars in affected areas. Flooding of roads is expec
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ridge Way | Groundwater Level | +0.95m | 73.54m |
| Kingston Russell | Groundwater Level | +0.61m | 117.68m |
| Delcombe Wood | Groundwater Level | +0.57m | 134.29m |
| Dickley Down | Groundwater Level | +0.26m | 159.90m |
| Bank Barrow | Groundwater Level | +0.24m | 51.48m |
| Doles Ash | Groundwater Level | +0.19m | 119.93m |
| Ashton Farm | Groundwater Level | +0.15m | 70.82m |