Flood Alert Issued for East Kent Due to Rising Groundwater Levels

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert for groundwater flooding in East Kent. The alert was officially raised on February 27, 2026, at 2:01 PM following a sustained period of rising water levels.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically covers low-lying land, roads, and properties with basements in the following geographic regions:

• Petham Bourne, Alkham Bourne, and Nailbourne
• Communities including Alkham, Temple Ewell, Elham, Barham, Bishopsbourne, Bridge, Patrixbourne, and Bekesbourne

What You Should Do

Residents in the warning area are advised to take the following precautions:

• Monitor groundwater levels via the official ‘Check for Flooding’ service on gov.uk.
• Riparian owners are reminded of their responsibility to keep rivers and watercourses on their land clear of obstructions.
• Prepare for potential flooding in basements and on local roads.

Expected Conditions

Groundwater levels in East Kent have been rising steadily following significant rainfall recorded during January and early February. Levels are continuing to increase in response to more recent rainfall. Currently, the Nailbourne is flowing throughout its course. To manage the rising water, the Environment Agency has confirmed they have started operating the Littlebourne Relief Channel.

Timeline

This alert is effective immediately. The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the situation and expects to provide an update by 4:00 PM on March 6, 2026, or sooner if conditions change significantly.