RESIDENTS and businesses are being urged to prepare as groundwater levels in the county reach unprecedented levels.

Dorset Council and the Environment Agency are raising awareness as levels in some parts of the county reach historic highs.

With more rain on the way with yellow weather and amber groundwater warnings in place, people are advised to check now if they are in an affected area.

In some parts of Dorset, water levels have peaked above the measurement scale of gauge boards, with many households experiencing groundwater flooding for the first time.

There are currently 18,000 properties at risk of groundwater flooding in the Environment Agency’s Bristol, Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire operational area.

However, of the 14,000 properties at risk, only 4,000 have signed up to receive flood warnings – equating to about 1 in 3 properties.

Dorset Council cabinet member for place services Cllr Jon Andrews said flooding caused by groundwater levels is very difficult.

“Due to the nature of this type of flooding, measures like sandbagging will not work, and people need to act now to protect themselves and their properties,” he added.

“More rain on very saturated land is very likely to cause further flooding in the county. We’re urging people to check now if they are at risk.

“We’re also asking everyone to be extra vigilant – keep up to date with flood warnings, do not drive through flooded roads, do no ignore road closed signs and look out for vulnerable neighbours.”

The Environment Agency currently has 32 of its 35 groundwater flood warnings active.

Preparing for groundwater flood warning requires a lead-in time to protect property, which may include having a well-maintained pump.

Jim Flory, area environment manager of the Environment Agency, said: “We have not seen so much groundwater in Dorset and Wiltshire since 2013/14, and it will hang around a lot longer than typical floodwater as it will constantly rise when pumped away.”

With ground water flooding comes an increased risk of sewage being moved overground, as drainage systems carrying floodwater are often interconnected

Since Storm Chandra hit, council staff have worked day and night, dealing with an unprecedented number of incidents, including two evacuations.

A big problem facing flooded communities is drivers ignoring road closed signs, removing closed signs and driving too quickly through flooded waters.

To find out how to sign up for flood warnings, visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/flooding