Flood Alert Issued for Groundwater Flooding in Vernham Dean, Upton, and Bourne Valley

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a flood alert (Severity Level 3) for groundwater flooding in the Solent and South Downs area. High groundwater levels are currently being monitored as flooding becomes possible in the region due to recent rainfall and rising water tables.

Affected Areas

The alert specifically covers Vernham Dean, Upton, and the Bourne Valley in Hampshire. Current reports indicate that flooding is already affecting a small number of cellars in Upton. Additionally, residents in St Mary Bourne, Hurstbourne Tarrant, and Stoke should remain vigilant for potential impacts to cellars and sewerage systems throughout March.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas, particularly those in Upton, are advised to prepare property resilience measures. Ensure that any installed flood pumps are in good working order. Users of septic tanks should be aware that systems may struggle to operate properly due to the high water table. The Environment Agency is closely monitoring the situation.

Expected Conditions

Approximately 19mm of rain has fallen over the last week. While groundwater levels at Vernham Dean have begun to stabilise, further precipitation is expected. Forecasts indicate between 15mm and 25mm of rain will affect Hampshire from Thursday, February 26, into Friday. If heavy rain impacts the Bourne Valley, groundwater levels are expected to continue rising for another two weeks.

Timeline

The alert was raised on February 24, 2026. While dry weather is expected on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday of this week, the threat of cellar flooding and sewerage impacts may persist into March. The Environment Agency will provide an update on the situation by 6:00 PM on March 3, 2026, or sooner if conditions change.