Flood Warning Issued for Groundwater in Gussage Area Across Dorset and Wiltshire

Alert Details

The Environment Agency has issued a Flood Warning for groundwater flooding for the Gussage. This alert indicates that high groundwater levels are expected to cause flooding in the region.

Affected Areas

The warning covers areas within Dorset Council and Wiltshire, specifically:

• Gussage St. Andrew
• Gussage St Michael
• Gussage All Saints

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are advised to take the following actions:

• Prepare property resilience measures immediately.
• Ensure that any installed flood pumps are working and switched on.
• Identify alternative power sources for pumps in the event of a power cut.
• Be aware that septic tanks and sewer systems may become inundated.

Expected Conditions

Groundwater levels in Cranborne Chase are currently falling slowly but remain at a high level. The Rushmore borehole has recorded a level of 133.27m. While recent days have seen drier weather, further rainfall is forecast to begin on Thursday, February 26. This precipitation is expected to cause groundwater levels to rise again through the weekend. High groundwater levels are also likely to exacerbate the impacts of any fluvial flooding. Residents should expect flooding of roads and potential flooding in cellars.

Timeline

The alert was officially raised on February 25, 2026. The forecast rainfall is expected to impact levels starting Thursday, February 26, and continuing into the weekend. The Environment Agency will provide an update on the situation by 2:00 PM on March 4, 2026, or sooner if conditions change significantly.