Groundwater flooding threat remains high

Although groundwater levels are falling, the ground is still saturated following the wettest winter on record.

More rain has been forecast for next week, and unless a prolonged spell of dry weather occurs in the next few weeks, groundwater flooding continues to be a risk.

Groundwater flooding occurs when water rises up from an underlying water source.

There is normally a delay before it emerges after prolonged or heavy rainfall – varying from a week to a month.

The county council said sandbags may not be effective against groundwater flooding as water can come up through the floor and toilets, often leading to foul flooding where water is contaminated by sewage.