A Flood Warning was issued for Groundwater flooding for the South Winterbourne Valley in Dorset Council on 23rd March 2026. Affected watercourses included the Groundwater.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The Groundwater Level at Ridge Way rose 0.79m, peaking at 72.59m, while the Groundwater Level at Delcombe Wood climbed 0.70m.
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 116.79m. Levels are falling slowly but still remain high. There is some rainfall forecast in the next few days which may cause some response. Residents may experience inundation of septic tanks and sewer systems. Properties may experience flooding in cellars in affected a
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ridge Way | Groundwater Level | +0.79m | 72.59m |
| Delcombe Wood | Groundwater Level | +0.70m | 133.72m |
| Kingston Russell | Groundwater Level | +0.58m | 117.07m |
| Bank Barrow | Groundwater Level | +0.18m | 51.25m |
| Dickley Down | Groundwater Level | +0.16m | 159.65m |
| Ashton Farm | Groundwater Level | +0.12m | 70.67m |
| Doles Ash | Groundwater Level | +0.12m | 119.74m |