RESIDENTS across parts of south Wiltshire are being urged to stay alert as rising groundwater levels bring an increased risk of flooding in the Wylye Valley and surrounding communities.

The Environment Agency has issued a groundwater flood warning, saying flooding is expected from today as water levels continue to rise beneath Salisbury Plain following Storm Chandra.

Unlike surface flooding, groundwater flooding can build slowly and last for weeks, affecting homes, roads and essential services.

Villages at risk across the Wylye Valley include Kingston Deverill, Monkton Deverill, Hill Deverill, Longbridge Deverill, Crockerton, Norton Bavant, Heytesbury, Corton, Upton Lovell, Boyton, Sherrington, Stockton and Bapton.

Wilton has also been identified as an area of concern.

Wilton Town Council warned that groundwater levels at the Stoford Cross borehole have already reached 75.09 metres and are expected to continue rising into next week.

Residents in affected areas are being advised to take precautionary action now.

This includes preparing property resilience measures, checking that any installed pumps are working and switched on and considering alternative power sources in case of electricity outages.

The town council has warned that high groundwater can lead to flooding of cellars, inundation of septic tanks and sewer systems and flooded roads, potentially disrupting travel and access to communities.

Groundwater flooding is particularly challenging because it can emerge through the ground rather than from rivers or drains, making it harder to predict exactly where water will surface.

Authorities are urging people to remain cautious, plan journeys carefully and avoid flooded roads wherever possible.

Residents experiencing issues are encouraged to keep monitoring official updates as conditions develop over the coming days.

Further updates are expected as groundwater levels continue to be closely monitored across the area.