Groundwater flooding for the Crichel

High groundwater levels are expected to cause flooding. Groundwater levels in Cranborne Chase are falling slowly, but remain high. Areas that could be affected include: Cheetle, Long Crichel and Moor Crichel. The groundwater level at the Rushmore borehole is at 133.27m. We have had a few days of drier weather, but further rainfall is forecast starting tomorrow, Thursday 26 February, which may cause levels to rise once again into the weekend. High groundwater levels will also increase the impacts of any fluvial flooding. 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. Properties may experience flooding in cellars in affected areas. Flooding of roads is expected. We are closely monitoring the situation. If you have a pump, make sure it is working and switched on. Think about alternative power sources in case of power cuts. This message will be updated by 2:00PM on 4 March 2026 or as the situation changes.