A Flood Warning was issued for Groundwater flooding in the Cerne Valley in Dorset Council on 3rd March 2026. Affected watercourses included the Groundwater.
During this event, FloodRadar monitoring gauges recorded notable rises. The Groundwater Level at Ridge Way rose 1.67m, peaking at 80.40m, while the Groundwater Level at Iwerne Hill Farm climbed 1.33m.
Environment Agency advice issued
High groundwater levels are expected to cause flooding. Groundwater levels in West Dorset are high and remain reactive to further rainfall. Areas that could be affected include: Charminster and nearby areas. The groundwater level at the Dickley Down borehole is at 161.84m. The forecast for this week is dry with possible showers at the weekend. Residents are advised to prepare property resilience measures and ensure that pumps are working where they have been installed. Residents may experience inundation of septic tanks and sewer systems. Flooding of roads is expected, take particular care whe
Monitoring gauges during this event
| Station | River | Rise | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ridge Way | Groundwater Level | +1.67m | 80.40m |
| Iwerne Hill Farm | Groundwater Level | +1.33m | 112.21m |
| Delcombe Wood | Groundwater Level | +1.28m | 139.78m |
| Dickley Down | Groundwater Level | +1.16m | 162.46m |
| Bank Barrow | Groundwater Level | +0.76m | 54.18m |
| Doles Ash | Groundwater Level | +0.55m | 121.87m |
| Kingston Russell | Groundwater Level | +0.46m | 120.68m |
| Ashton Farm | Groundwater Level | +0.07m | 71.19m |